CHAPTER 14
CAUDAL / SACRAL BLOCK
( This is the section that explains the detail of the operation or procedure above and should be read in conjunction with the chapter Your Back Operation ).
A caudal / sacral block is performed for pain that is caused by inflammation and irritation in the spinal canal . The aim of the procedure is to reduce the inflammation inside the spinal canal . This will then bring about partial or complete ( but usually temporary ) relief of the pain , spasm and referred pain that this inflammation around the nerves can cause .
The reason why your specialist performs this procedure and not a more invasive procedure , is because he or she is trying to be as conservative as possible in treating your symptoms .
When undergoing this procedure , you will be lying on your stomach on bolsters or pillows . Your specialist will use an X-ray machine to guide the needle that is used to do the procedure with . The needle is placed directly into the sacral hiatus – this is at the bottom end of the spine – and a mixture of steroids and local anaesthetic is injected into the sacral hiatus ( also called caudal hiatus ). This procedure is performed with local anaesthetic and sometimes with sedation .
This procedure can also be performed on an out-patient basis under CT guidance by a radiologist .
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