Related Experiment Videos
Selective diagnostic cervical nerve root block--correlation with clinical symptoms and MRI-pathology
L Anderberg1, M Annertz, L Brandt
1Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital, Lund, Sweden. leif.anderberg@neurokir.lu.se
Acta Neurochirurgica
|May 29, 2004
Summary
Cervical selective diagnostic nerve root blocks (SNRB) effectively correlate imaging findings with symptoms in patients with cervical radicular pain. This diagnostic technique aids in identifying the source of pain, leading to successful surgical outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Pain Management
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Cervical radicular pain is often associated with single-level degenerative disease.
- Accurate correlation between clinical symptoms and imaging is crucial for effective treatment planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the cervical selective diagnostic nerve root block (SNRB) technique.
- To assess the correlation between clinical symptoms and MRI findings in patients with cervical radicular pain.
Main Methods:
- Twenty patients with cervical radiculopathy and single-level MRI pathology were included.
- Visual analog scales (VAS) measured neck and arm pain before and after SNRB with local anesthesia.
- Provocation with active neck motion was used in the latter half of the study.
Main Results:
- Significant reductions in arm pain (86% VAS) and neck pain (65% VAS) were observed post-block.
- All patients demonstrated a positive block response when provocation was included.
- Eighteen surgically treated patients were free from radicular pain post-operatively.
Conclusions:
- The SNRB technique is valuable for linking radiological findings with clinical presentation in cervical radicular pain.
- This diagnostic block aids in confirming the nerve root responsible for pain, guiding surgical decisions.