Clin Pain.  2023 Dec;22(2):61-65. 10.35827/cp.2023.22.2.61.

Ultrasound-Guided Selective Cervical Root Block in Spondylotic Radiculopathy: Advantages and Safety

• Lee DG

• KMID: 2550405
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.35827/cp.2023.22.2.61

Abstract

This review journal focuses on using ultrasound-guided root block in spondylotic radiculopathy, exploring its therapeutic potential, safety advantages, and validation challenges. C-arm guided transforaminal epidural steroid injection (C-TFESI) has constantly shown effective treatment outcomes for spondylotic radiculopathy. However, C-TFESI has been associated with rare significant adverse events, including cervical cord and brain infarction. Advancements in musculoskeletal ultrasonography have sparked efforts to apply this technique in spondylotic radiculopathy treatment. The distinct advantages of ultrasound, particularly in soft tissue discrimination and vascular visualization, have positioned it as a valuable tool in minimizing the risk of significant complications like spinal cord and brain infarction following cervical spinal injection procedures. Numerous studies have reported the potential and efficacy of ultrasound-guided cervical root block, establishing it as a safe and effective therapeutic approach. However, further validation is warranted to address the limitations and gaps in the current knowledge, particularly regarding the risk of vascular injection.

Keyword

Ultrasonography; Radiculopathy; Selective root block; Vascular injection; Cervical spine