Cervical Zygapophysial Joint Nerve (Medial Branch) Radiofrequency Neurotomy/Injection—Posterior Approach: Ultrasound Guidance




Abstract


Cervical facet zygapophysial (facet) joint (Z-joint) nerves (medial branches) can be safely, effectively, and efficiently accessed with ultrasound (US) guidance by an experienced interventionalist. The structures involved are relatively superficial and, thus, lend themselves well to US visualization. Furthermore, radiolucent structures that cannot be seen on fluoroscopy may be visualized on US, enhancing the safety of this intervention.




Keywords

facet joint nerve, headaches, medial branch block, neck pain, readiofrequency neurotomy, ultrasound guided, Z-joint, zygapophysial joint

 



Note: Please see pages ii , iii for a list of anatomic terms/abbreviations used throughout this book.


Cervical facet/zygapophysial joint (Z-joint) nerves (medial branches) can be safely, effectively, and efficiently accessed with ultrasound (US) guidance by an experienced interventionalist. The structures involved are relatively superficial and, thus, lend themselves well to US visualization. Furthermore, radiolucent structures that cannot be seen on fluoroscopy may be visualized on US, enhancing the safety of this intervention.


Here we present a posterior approach for cervical medial branch block or radiofrequency neurotomy with an in-plane technique with out-of-plane confirmation. This technique can be used alone or in conjunction with conventional fluoroscopy in a hybrid technique, thus, eliminating or minimizing exposure to the ionizing radiation.




In-Plane Technique ( Fig. 30G.1 )



Jan 27, 2019 | Posted by in RHEUMATOLOGY | Comments Off on Cervical Zygapophysial Joint Nerve (Medial Branch) Radiofrequency Neurotomy/Injection—Posterior Approach: Ultrasound Guidance

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