What to Expect During a Procedure

Cervical Epidural Injections

Caudal Epidural Injection

Diagnostic Spinal Injection

Lumbar Epidural Injections

Intradiscal Procedures

Radiofrequency Ablation

   


What to expect during a procedure
We understand that most patients are quite apprehensive about undergoing an interventional pain procedure. It all starts with our basic fear of needles. At our Clinic we do everything within our power to ensure that each and every patient has an experience with as little discomfort as possible.

Foremost, all procedures are performed using fluoroscopy (or X-ray) since this ensures that the injection is performed correctly without re-steering of the needle. This can significantly reduce discomfort.

Almost all patients are pre-treated with Valium to reduce anxiety. Additionally, each patient has the option for IV sedation, which we have discovered is very popular with patient undergoing our procedures. The sedation consists of medication which drastically reduce pain and also decrease recall of the procedure.

The first step is to arrive and check in at the surgery center. This involves filling out some paperwork and the staff collecting insurance and medical information. After checking in the patient will be taken to the pre-procedure area where one of our trained nurses will complete the history, review medications and allergies, and start an IV if sedation is required or requested.

The procedure is performed in our specially-equipped procedure room. Full monitoring is observed throughout including heart rate, blood pressure and level of oxygenation. Following the procedure the patient is taken to our post-procedural area for recovery which typically takes 15-30 minutes. Family members are welcome in this area.

All of our precautions are to ensure you the safest and most comfortable procedure.




What happens at the Surgery Center
After your arrival at the Surgery Center, you will check in at the Admission Office and Reception Area
When you go to the Surgery Center for a procedure, the first step is to check in. During this step you will be asked to fill out insurance paperwork and answer certain medical questions.

The waiting area is very comfortable and is designed to put our patients at ease. Family members can wait here while the patient undergoes the procedure.

After you have finished your paperwork, you'll be taken to the pre-procedure area for an evaluation by one of our highly trained nurses
After you have checked in to the Surgery Center, you will be brought to the pre-op area. Here you will be asked to get into a patient's gown. A trained nurse will take a complete history and perform a physical examination. For most procedures, an I.V. will be started. This is for patient safety and for us to administer sedating medications during the procedure.

You will also have the opportunity to discuss your procedure with Dr. Lynch and Dr. McJunkin. If you or your family members have any questions, we will do our best to anwer them.

All procedures are performed by Dr. Lynch and Dr McJunkin in our special treatment room
After your procedure you will be transported in complete comfort to our Recovery Area
Following completion of the procedure, you will be taken directly to our recovery area. During the period following the procedure, our specially trained nurses will monitor your condition and make sure that you're comfortable.

You and family members will also be provided specific instructions concerning your procedure. You will also have the opportunity to discuss the procedure with Dr. Lynch and Dr. Mcjunkin. They will make sure that you have a follow-up office visit to see them in the clinic.

After you have recovered sufficiently from the procedure, you will be discharged in a safe and courteous manner
After you have recovered from the procedure, and the nursing staff and Dr's staff are satisfied with your recovery, you'll be allowed to change into your regular clothing. Your post-procedure instructions will be reviewed one final time and you will be allowed to leave.

The safety and comfort of our patients is our top priority and we do all we can during your visit to our center to ensure that you have a wonderful experience.