Transforaminal Epidural MIPSI

Transforaminal Epidural MIPSI- 

This procedure is a minimally invasive non – surgical spine injection done under image guidance for pain traveling from your lower back to your leg, commonly referred to as slip disc pain or Sciatica.

Why is this procedure done?

Slip disc/herniated disc or Spinal Canal Narrowing (Stenosis)cause irritation or compression of your spinal nerve in the spine. The inflammation or swelling of the nerve leads to shooting pain from your lower back to your leg or sciatica. 

This injection specifically targets the compressed nerve through a natural opening in your spine called foramen & deposits medicine precisely in a space around it, called the epidural space. This reduces the inflammation & also decreases the pain.

How is the procedure performed?

• The procedure is done in a sterile operation theatre or procedure room

• You will lie comfortably on your stomach

• The area is cleaned and numbed with local anaesthesia

• Using live X-ray (fluoroscopy) guidance, a thin needle is placed accurately      near the affected nerve

• Contrast dye is used to confirm correct placement

• The medication is then injected

The entire procedure usually takes 15–30 minutes.

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Is it painful?

Most patients experience only mild discomfort. The procedure is done under local anaesthesia, so you remain awake but comfortable throughout.

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What to expect after the procedure?

• You may feel immediate relief due to the local anaesthetic

• Steroid effect may take 2–5 days to reduce inflammation

• Some soreness at the injection site is normal

• You can usually go home the same day

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Benefits of TFESI

• Targeted pain relief

• Minimally invasive (no surgery)

• Quick recovery

• Helps avoid or delay surgery in many cases

• Improves ability to perform daily activities

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Are there any risks?

This is a safe procedure when performed by trained specialists, but like any medical procedure, it carries small risks:

• Temporary increase in pain

• Infection (rare)

• Bleeding

• Nerve irritation (very rare)

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Who should not undergo this procedure?

• Patients with active infection

• Uncontrolled diabetes (may need optimization first)

• Those on blood thinners (may need temporary stoppage under medical advice)

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Final Note

A transforaminal epidural injection is both diagnostic and therapeutic—it not only relieves pain but also helps identify the exact source of nerve irritation.