Affiliations: Department of Orthopedics, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiangmai, Thailand
Correspondence:
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Corresponding author: Taninnit Leerapun, Department of Orthopedics, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, 110 Inthawaroros Rd., T. Sriphum, Muang, Chiangmai, 50200, Thailand. Tel.: +66 53 94 5544; Fax: +66 53 94 6442; E-mail: tleerapun@gmail.com.
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Fluoroscopy-guided caudal epidural steroid injection (EDSI) is an option for conservative treatment of low back pain and sciatica; however, repeated exposure to radiation is a concern. With the blind technique, the needle misplacement rate is 30%; hence, ultrasound-guided caudal EDSI is a favored option. OBJECTIVE: To determine the efficacy of ultrasound-guided EDSI for low back pain and sciatica. METHODS: One hundred and ten patients with low back pain and sciatica who were unresponsive to conservative treatment, were prospectively recruited. Ultrasound-guided caudal EDSI was administered at 0, 3, and 6 weeks. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score was recorded at 0, 2, 4, 12, and 24 weeks. Patients completed the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ) at pre-injection and 24 weeks post-injection. RESULTS: VAS was significantly reduced at 2, 4, 12, and 24 weeks (p< 0.01). At 2, 4, 12, and 24 weeks after injection, 20%, 26%, 74%, and 83% of patients displayed > 50% VAS reduction, respectively. The mean pre-injection RMDQ score was 15 and that post-injection at 24 weeks was 7 (p< 0.01). The majority of patients had > 50% reduction in the RMDQ score. CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasound-guided EDSI was safe and efficacious for low back pain and sciatica treatment at the intermediate follow-up.
Keywords: Low back pain, sciatica, epidural injection, ultrasound
