Chronic pain or debilitating musculoskeletal injuries may require surgery as the only viable and effective solution, especially when non-invasive treatments have proven unsuccessful. However, traditional surgery is often associated with large incisions, trauma to surrounding areas, a prolonged recovery period, and the risk of severe complications. Fortunately, recent advances in medical technology and surgical techniques have led to safer and less invasive procedures, including minimally invasive surgery in Anderson. At Injury Medicine, our team of highly trained and board-certified orthopedic surgeons in Anderson, SC, uses the safest and most effective surgical techniques to ensure your well-being. Contact our Anderson offices today at 864-866-PAIN to schedule an evaluation and determine if minimally invasive procedures in Anderson could be a suitable option for your needs.
What Is a Minimally Invasive Procedure?
Minimally invasive surgery is an advanced surgical technique that uses sophisticated medical instruments and innovative surgical procedures to minimize the size and number of incisions required during an operation. In traditional or open surgeries, large incisions are typically made through the skin and muscles, which can cause bodily trauma. In contrast, minimally invasive procedures involve only small incisions. At Injury Medicine, we offer various types of minimally invasive procedures, including pain relief injections, which can be performed by our expert medical professionals. Most minimally invasive surgeries take only a few minutes to complete, and patients can often experience rapid pain relief, usually by the time they leave the physician’s office. Furthermore, since minimally invasive surgery does not usually require a recovery period, normal activities can be resumed on the same day. If you want to learn more about minimally invasive procedures in Anderson, contact our office today. Our experienced team has extensive knowledge and years of experience in this field.
What Are the Benefits of a Minimally Invasive Procedure?
Compared to traditional or open surgeries, a minimally invasive surgical approach offers a wide range of benefits to our patients. This includes smaller incisions, as the surgeon only needs to make tiny incisions that are just large enough to accommodate cameras and small surgical tools, resulting in less trauma to the body and reduced scarring. Additionally, patients typically experience less post-operative pain, as the smaller incisions result in less tissue damage. This, in turn, leads to a faster recovery time, with most minimally invasive procedures being performed on an outpatient basis. Furthermore, since the wounds caused during these procedures are small and heal quickly, there is a reduced risk of infection. Finally, minimally invasive procedures also result in fewer complications overall, as patients experience less damage or trauma to the body, smaller incisions mean less bleeding and swelling, and patients require less anesthesia and pain medication, which can result in adverse effects.
Are There Risks With a Minimally Invasive Procedure, and if So, What Are They?
Although minimally invasive surgery is generally considered safer than traditional surgery, as with any medical procedure, there is still a degree of risk involved. While rare, complications from minimally invasive procedures in Anderson may include issues with anesthesia, bleeding, or infection. It is essential to discuss any potential risks with your physician before undergoing a minimally invasive procedure and to follow all post-operative instructions carefully to minimize the risk of complications. At Injury Medicine, we take all necessary precautions to minimize these risks and ensure that our patients receive the highest quality of care.
What Are the Different Types of Minimally Invasive Procedures in Anderson that Are Performed at Injury Medicine?
At Injury Medicine, we offer several types of minimally invasive procedures in Anderson. Some of the procedures that our offices offer are listed below:
Brachial Plexus Block Injection
A brachial plexus block injection is a minimally invasive procedure that provides quick pain relief in the shoulders, arms, or hands. The injection involves the use of a small needle to administer local anesthesia to the affected area, while fluoroscopy is used to guide the needle to the appropriate location. This procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis, and patients can often resume normal activities shortly after the injection. Brachial plexus block injections have been proven to be an effective method for managing pain in the upper extremities and can offer patients a safe, minimally invasive alternative to more invasive surgical procedures.
Caudal Steroid Injection
The treatment being referred to is a steroid injection, which is used to alleviate pain and inflammation in patients experiencing chronic limb and back pain. This minimally invasive procedure involves the injection of a combination of anesthesia and a steroid directly into the affected area. The anesthesia numbs the area, while the steroid helps to reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain. This treatment is typically performed on an outpatient basis and patients can often resume normal activities shortly after the injection. Steroid injections have been shown to be a safe and effective method for managing pain and inflammation in various parts of the body, including the limbs and back.
Celiac Plexus Block
This is a type of injection treatment used to provide relief to patients suffering from chronic abdominal pain.
Chiropractic
Chiropractors use a wide range of techniques to help treat chronic back and neck pain.
Discography
The procedure being described is called a diagnostic nerve block, which is used to determine the source of a patient’s lower back, hip, or groin pain. During the procedure, a small amount of local anesthetic is injected near the nerve believed to be causing the pain. If the patient experiences pain relief after the injection, it indicates that the nerve is the source of the pain. This diagnostic information is used to determine whether the patient is a candidate for minimally invasive procedures or interventional pain therapies. Diagnostic nerve blocks are minimally invasive, relatively quick, and can provide valuable information to help healthcare providers develop an effective pain management plan for their patients.
Epidural Steroid Injection
Epidural steroid injections are a common treatment used to alleviate inflammatory symptoms associated with back pain, neck pain, leg pain, and arm pain. This minimally invasive procedure involves the injection of a corticosteroid medication and a local anesthetic directly into the epidural space, which is the area around the spinal cord and nerve roots. The corticosteroid works to reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain in the affected area, while the local anesthetic provides immediate pain relief. Epidural steroid injections are often used in conjunction with other conservative treatments, such as physical therapy, to manage chronic pain and improve quality of life for patients.
Facet Blocks
The procedure being described is called a facet joint injection, which is a minimally invasive treatment that involves the injection of medication and a local anesthetic into a facet joint in order to numb the area and alleviate pain. Facet joints are located in the spine and connect the vertebrae, and can become a source of pain due to injury, arthritis, or other conditions. The injection typically consists of a combination of a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation and pain, and a local anesthetic to provide immediate pain relief. Facet joint injections are often used as a part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include physical therapy, medication, and other interventional pain management techniques. This minimally invasive procedure is effective for providing targeted pain relief and can improve mobility and quality of life for patients with facet joint pain.
Facet Joint Injection
A facet joint injection is a minimally invasive procedure that is used to relieve neck or back pain caused by inflammation of the spinal facet joints. Facet joints are located in the spine and connect the vertebrae, and can become inflamed and painful due to injury, arthritis, or other conditions. During the injection, a combination of a corticosteroid and a local anesthetic is injected directly into the affected facet joint to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. This targeted approach allows for pain relief in the specific area of the spine that is affected, and can provide significant relief for patients who have not responded to other conservative treatments. Facet joint injections are often performed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include physical therapy, medication, and other interventional pain management techniques.
Injections for Back Pain
Injections for back pain are a common treatment option used to alleviate pain and discomfort in the back by treating inflammation and nerve damage. These injections can offer both short-term and long-term relief from pain, depending on the specific type of injection and the underlying condition being treated. Some common types of injections for back pain include epidural steroid injections, which target inflammation in the spinal cord and nerve roots, and facet joint injections, which target inflammation in the facet joints of the spine. Other types of injections may be used to block pain signals from specific nerves or to provide relief from muscle spasms. Injections for back pain are typically performed on an outpatient basis and can be an effective treatment option for patients who have not responded to other conservative treatments.
Joint Injections
These types of injections are commonly referred to as joint injections, which are meant to provide relief from pain in major joints such as hips, shoulders, and knees. Joint injections are designed to reduce inflammation in the joint and provide pain relief, thereby helping to prevent further pain from occurring. The injections typically consist of a combination of a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation and pain, and a local anesthetic to provide immediate pain relief. Joint injections can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including arthritis, tendonitis, bursitis, and other inflammatory conditions that affect the joints. This minimally invasive treatment can be an effective option for patients who have not responded to other conservative treatments, and can improve mobility and quality of life for those suffering from joint pain.
Kyphoplasty
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive spinal procedure that is used to relieve pain caused by a compression fracture and restore damaged vertebrae. The procedure involves making a small incision in the back and inserting a special balloon into the compressed area of the vertebrae. The balloon is then inflated to create a space within the vertebrae, which is filled with a bone cement material. This helps to stabilize the vertebrae, restore its height and shape, and provide pain relief by reducing pressure on the surrounding nerves. Kyphoplasty is typically performed on an outpatient basis and can be an effective treatment option for patients who have not responded to other conservative treatments for compression fractures, such as pain medication, bracing, or physical therapy. The procedure is considered safe and minimally invasive, with a low risk of complications, and can help improve mobility and quality of life for those suffering from vertebral compression fractures.
Medial Branch Block
A facet joint injection is a type of injection used to provide relief from pain caused by facet joint syndrome or other conditions affecting the facet joints. The facet joints are small joints located between the vertebrae in the spine that provide stability and enable movement. When these joints become inflamed, it can cause significant pain and discomfort. Facet joint injections involve the administration of a combination of a local anesthetic and steroid medication directly into the affected joint or joints. The local anesthetic provides immediate pain relief, while the steroid medication helps to reduce inflammation and provide longer-lasting pain relief. Facet joint injections can be an effective treatment option for patients who have not responded to other conservative treatments, such as physical therapy or oral medications. The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis and can be repeated as needed to provide ongoing pain relief. It is considered a safe and minimally invasive treatment option for those suffering from facet joint syndrome or other conditions affecting the facet joints.
Medication Management
Medication management is a process that involves developing and implementing a pain management and injury recovery plan that is tailored to the patient’s specific medical needs and medication experiences. This may involve the use of medications to alleviate pain, manage symptoms, and promote healing following an injury or surgery. The medication management plan is developed in consultation with the patient and their healthcare provider, and may involve a combination of prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, and other treatments such as physical therapy or behavioral interventions. The goal of medication management is to provide effective pain relief while minimizing the risk of side effects or complications from medication use. Regular follow-up appointments and medication adjustments may be necessary to ensure that the plan is working effectively and to address any new or ongoing concerns. Effective medication management can help patients achieve better outcomes and improve their quality of life while managing pain and promoting recovery.
Nerve Blocks
Nerve blocks, also referred to as sympathetic nerve blocks, are a medical procedure utilized for both diagnosing and treating the underlying cause of pain, tingling, or burning sensations in the arms and hands or feet and legs. This procedure involves the injection of medication into or around a specific nerve or group of nerves to block the transmission of pain signals to the brain. Nerve blocks can help identify the source of the pain by selectively targeting individual nerves and observing the resulting pain relief. They are also commonly used to treat chronic pain, neuropathy, and nerve injuries, providing patients with relief and improved quality of life.
Occipital Nerve Block
The occipital nerve block is a minimally invasive medical procedure designed to alleviate pain caused by the occipital nerves. These nerves are situated at the back of the head, above the neck, and are responsible for transmitting sensory information from the scalp and upper neck to the brain. By administering an occipital nerve block, medication is injected into the affected nerves to help block the transmission of pain signals, providing relief from pain in the head and neck region. This procedure is minimally invasive, meaning that it requires only a small incision and typically involves minimal downtime for patients.
Pain Management
Pain management involves identifying the source of the pain and developing a treatment plan for the pain.
Peripheral Nerve Block
These can be used to both diagnose as well as treat neuropathy, headaches, pelvic pain, and other ailments
Radiofrequency Ablation
This form of treatment is used to provide relief from pain by using electrical currents in the form of radio waves to disrupt the transmission of pain signals.
Sacroiliac Joint Steroid Injection
The sacroiliac joint injection is a medical procedure that serves both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Its primary goal is to identify the source of pain and provide relief. The procedure involves the injection of a local anesthetic and a corticosteroid medication directly into the sacroiliac joint, which is located in the lower back, between the sacrum and the ilium bones of the pelvis. By administering the injection, the doctor can diagnose whether the sacroiliac joint is the source of the patient’s pain and provide relief by reducing inflammation and blocking pain signals. This procedure is commonly used to identify which sacroiliac joint is causing the pain and is useful for patients who suffer from chronic lower back pain or pain that radiates down the leg.
Sciatic Nerve Block
A sciatic nerve block is a medical procedure used to provide relief from pain that originates from the sciatic nerve. This nerve runs from the lower back down through the hips and legs, and when compressed or irritated, can cause significant discomfort, including shooting pain, tingling, and numbness in the lower back, hips, and legs. During a sciatic nerve block, a combination of a corticosteroid medication and a local anesthetic is injected into the affected area, typically near the nerve root, to help reduce inflammation and block pain signals. This injection can provide immediate and long-lasting relief from the symptoms of sciatica, improving the patient’s quality of life and enabling them to return to their regular activities.
Sphenopalatine Ganglion Block
A sphenopalatine ganglion block is a minimally invasive medical procedure designed to alleviate headaches and facial pain caused by damaged or inflamed sphenopalatine ganglion nerves. These nerves are located behind the nose and are responsible for transmitting sensory information from the face, nose, and sinuses to the brain. By administering a sphenopalatine ganglion block, medication is injected into the affected nerves to help reduce inflammation and block pain signals, providing relief from headaches and facial pain. This procedure is minimally invasive, meaning that it requires only a small incision and typically involves minimal downtime for patients. It is a safe and effective treatment option for patients who suffer from chronic headaches and facial pain.
A spinal cord stimulator is a small device that is usually inserted under the skin and inserted into the spinal cord or connected to nerves. It is meant to provide pain relief by transmitting electrical pulses to disrupt the transmission of pain signals.
Stellate Ganglion Block
A cervical facet joint nerve block is a minimally invasive injection procedure that is used to treat nerve-related pain and issues in the neck. The procedure involves the injection of a local anesthetic and a corticosteroid medication into the facet joints, which are small joints located between the vertebrae in the neck. The medication works by temporarily desensitizing the branches of nerves found in the neck, reducing inflammation and blocking pain signals. This procedure is commonly used to treat chronic neck pain, headaches, and other related issues, and provides patients with significant pain relief. Cervical facet joint nerve block is a safe and effective treatment option for patients who have not found relief from other forms of pain management.
Sympathetic Nerve Blocks
This is a group of injections used to treat lower back and leg pain caused by complex regional pain syndrome, peripheral neuropathy, shingles, and sciatica.
Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injection
An epidural steroid injection is a minimally invasive medical procedure designed to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in the spine. During the procedure, a combination of a local anesthetic and a corticosteroid medication is injected into the epidural space, which is the area surrounding the spinal cord and the nerves that exit the spinal cord. The medication helps to reduce inflammation and block pain signals, providing relief for a range of conditions including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and sciatica. Epidural steroid injections are a safe and effective treatment option for patients who suffer from chronic back pain, and can provide long-lasting relief without the need for surgery.
Trigger Point Injection
A trigger point injection is a minimally invasive medical procedure designed to provide relief from pain and inflammation by administering a local anesthetic, sometimes combined with a corticosteroid medication, directly to a specific trigger point. Trigger points are small, tight knots that can develop in muscles and cause pain and discomfort. During the procedure, the healthcare provider will identify the trigger point and then use a small needle to inject the medication directly into the affected area. The medication helps to reduce inflammation and block pain signals, providing immediate relief from pain and discomfort. Trigger point injections are a safe and effective treatment option for patients who suffer from chronic muscle pain, tension headaches, and other related conditions, and can be performed in an outpatient setting with minimal downtime.
Vertebroplasty
Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure also known as vertebral augmentation, which is designed to provide relief for patients suffering from painful spinal compression fractures. Compression fractures can occur in the vertebrae due to osteoporosis or other conditions, leading to significant pain and limited mobility. During vertebroplasty, a small incision is made in the back and a cement-like material is injected into the affected vertebrae to stabilize and strengthen the bone. This procedure can provide immediate relief from pain and improve the patient’s overall quality of life. Vertebroplasty is a safe and effective treatment option for patients who have not found relief from other forms of pain management, and it can be performed as an outpatient procedure with minimal downtime.
Get the Medical Help You Need with Minimally Invasive Procedures in Anderson Today!
At Injury Medicine, our team of highly-trained and qualified surgeons have extensive experience in performing minimally invasive procedures for musculoskeletal injuries in Anderson. We are dedicated to using the safest and most effective surgical techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. If you are suffering from chronic pain or a debilitating musculoskeletal injury that is disrupting your life, we are here to help. Don’t wait any longer than necessary to get the relief you need.
To schedule an evaluation with one of our doctors, call us today at 864-866-PAIN. We will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and helps you get back to living your life to the fullest.
