Patient Information and Preparation

Special instructions

• Wear comfortable, breathable and lightweight clothing
• Tell your doctor if you have a latex or contrast (iodine) allergy, are diabetic and/or taking antibiotics or blood thinners
• Arrive 15 minutes before your appointment
• You will be provided with a screening questionnaire/consent form and will be given the opportunity to ask any questions about the procedure. If you have any questions prior to your appointment you can submit them here (link to question/intake form)
• For shoulders, hips, knees and ankles, you will be laying on your back for the duration of the procedure and it’s important to forewarn your doctor if you’re unable to hold this position or have mobility issues
• For shoulders, hips, knees and ankles, you will either be seated with your hand on the table or laying on your back for the duration of the procedure and it’s important to forewarn your doctor if you’re unable to hold the required position or have mobility issues

What to expect during your procedure

• The radiologist will clean the skin and administer a small amount of local anesthetic prior to performing the procedure
• Using live x-ray, the radiologist will then direct the needle toward the target joint area and administer the medication
• You will be required to keep still during the course of this procedure

What to expect after your procedure

• You will be monitored in the clinic during the succeeding hours and asked to complete a post-procedure pain score survey
• You will be provided with an aftercare instruction sheet, including a list of potential complications to watch for
• Whenever a needle is placed anywhere in the body, even something as simple as getting blood drawn, there is a risk of infection, bleeding, and nerve damage; while these complications are rare, it’s essential that you be made aware of these risks and remain vigilant