Short term functional outcome of transforaminal epidural steroid injection in the treatment of lumbar disc prolapse

Abstract

Introduction: Low back ache is one of the most common causes of physical constraints at work, affecting around 80 percent of the population. Mechanical low back ache and disc prolapse are more seen in younger population while lumbar spinal stenosis and lumbar spondylosis are more common in middle-aged and older patients. The purpose of the study was to determine the short-term functional outcome following Bupivacaine & Triamcinolone through transforaminal route in chronic disc prolapse. Time between onset of symptoms and injection ranged between 2 -12 months. Methodology: A prospective study of 30 patients with chronic low back ache with radiating pain who were well distributed based on age, sex, gender, radiating side and root involved. Patients were treated by transforaminal epidural injection under fluoroscopy guidance with combination of Triamcinolone and bupivacaine. Results: Post injection, functional outcomes were evaluated using VAS, LBPRS and ODI score at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 and 6 months. Conclusion: In our study, there was a statistically significant improvement in the 6-month post TFESI VAS score, ODI score and LBPRS scores compared to the baseline. In conclusion, bupivacaine with triamcinolone is safe and effective in the treatment of chronic disc prolapse patients.