Download Atlanto-Occipital Injection

Atlanto-Occipital Block
What are the indications for this procedure?
Atlanto-Occipital Block is useful in the diagnosis and treatment of painful conditions involving
trauma or inflammation of the atlanto-occipital joint. The pain caused by this joint can be
described as: neck pain, headache pain and TMJ pain.
What is the Atlanto-Occipital Joint?
The Atlanto-Occiptal Joint allows the head to nod forward and backward with an isolated range
of motion of approximately 35 degrees.
How is the procedure done?
Atlanto-Occipital Block is done under x-ray guidance because of the proximity of the joint to the
spinal cord and vertebral artery. The patient will lie face down on an x-ray table a pillow is
placed under the chest to allow the cervical spine (neck) to be moderately flexed. The skin over
the area to be treated is cleaned with an antiseptic solution. The physician numbs a small area
of skin with an anesthetic (numbing) medicine. This may sting for a few seconds. The physician
uses x-ray guidance to direct a very small needle into the joint between the skull and the spinal
column. After confirmation of needle placement, a small mixture of anesthetic (such as lidocaine)
and anti-inflammatory medication (steroid) is then slowly injected into the joint.
Will I be put to sleep?
The doctor or nurse present during the procedure will administer intravenous sedation to help
you become comfortable or relaxed. You will not be put to sleep since it is extremely important
for you to be awake enough to tell the doctor what you are feeling. For you safety and comfort,
you will be connected to monitoring equipment (EKG monitor, blood pressure cuff, and a bloodoxygen monitoring device).
How long does it take?
The injection only takes a few minutes, but the entire procedure usually takes 15-30 minutes.
Potential Risk and Complications:
As with all invasive medical procedures, there are potential risks and complications associated
with this procedure. However, in general the risk is low, and complications are rare. The potential
risks and complications that may occur include:
• Neural trauma
• Intravascular injection
• Seizures
• Ataxia (shaky movements, unsteady gait)
What are the discharge instructions?
You are advised to avoid doing any strenuous activities, unless instructed by your physician. You
should not drive the day of the injection. You may notice a slight increase in pain lasting for
several days as the numbing medication wears off and before the anti-inflammatory starts to
take effect. You can apply an ice or cold pack to the injected area to help provide pain relief if
necessary. Continue to take your regular medications as directed. Please call the office for any
unusual symptoms or side effects.
For more information, please call 806-353-6100.