Risks and Benefits of Cervical Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injections: A Comprehensive Review

Area of Science:

• Interventional Pain Medicine
• Neurosurgery
• Radiology

Background:

• Cervical transforaminal epidural steroid injections (CTFESIs) are a common treatment for cervical radicular pain.
• Pathologies like disc herniations and foraminal stenosis necessitate effective pain management strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the risks and benefits of CTFESIs.
• To evaluate the efficacy and safety profile of CTFESIs.
• To enhance clinical decision-making for interventional pain physicians.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive review of current literature on CTFESIs.
• Analysis of procedural techniques and safety protocols.
• Evaluation of patient selection criteria.

Main Results:

• CTFESIs provide significant pain relief and functional improvement, potentially avoiding surgery.
• Safety concerns exist due to cervical vascular proximity, with rare but severe complications possible.
• Advanced techniques like fluoroscopic guidance and non-particulate steroids are crucial for risk mitigation.

Conclusions:

• CTFESIs are a valuable tool for selected cervical radiculopathy patients.
• Careful patient selection and strict adherence to safety protocols are essential.
• This review aids clinicians in risk-benefit assessment for CTFESIs.