What is Your Question?
We’ve compiled the most common questions associated with Pain Services.
Are you looking for FAQ’s related to a surgical procedure?
What am I having done?
This is a steroid injection (cortizone) with local anesthetic to help with inflammation and pain.
Will I need to take a whole day off from work for the procedure?
Yes, but you should be able to return to work the following day.
How long will I be at Yellowstone Surgery Center?
On average, you can expect to be on location for approximately 90 minutes
How much will it hurt?
The injection of local anesthetic (numbing medicine) at the beginning of the procedure may sting some. If you are anxious or concerned about pain during the procedure, please discuss with your doctor.
Why do I need a driver?
For most procedures, numbing medicine is injected near the nerve that is causing your pain and may cause weakness for a period of time. This makes it dangerous for you to operate a vehicle for a few hours after your injection. With some procedures, you will be given mildly sedating medication, and it will be unsafe to drive or operate heavy machinery until the following day. You should arrange for an adult to drive you home.
Why can I not eat or drink prior to my procedure?
Due to the possibility of sedation with the procedure, it is very important to have an empty stomach. Vomiting may occur during the procedure and food or liquid can get into the lungs. If the patient has had even a small amount to eat or drink, the procedure will be delayed or canceled.
May I take my blood pressure, cardiac or anti-seizure medication?
It is very important that you take these medications at the usual time with a sip of water before your procedure, unless otherwise advised by your physician.
What can I take for pain?
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is an approved pain reliever that can be taken up until the procedure.
When will I be able to eat again or take my medications?
You should be able to resume eating and taking your medications after the procedure.
How soon after the procedure can I bathe?
It is okay to take a shower that evening, but avoid taking a bath, being in a hot tub, or swimming until the following day.
How soon can I go back to normal activity?
Following discharge home, you should plan on simple rest and relaxation. If you have pain at the injection site, application of an ice pack to this area should be helpful.
Most blocks and other pain treatments do not necessitate any restrictions in activity. Unless otherwise advised by your doctor or the Pain Services specialist, you may resume your previous activity level.
Will I be contacted by Yellowstone Surgery Center following the procedure?
Most patients will receive a phone call from a Yellowstone Surgery Center nurse one week following the procedure. For some procedures, a nurse will contact the patient the following day. Some examples include: Blood Patch, Medial Branch Block, Stellate Ganglion Block, and Lumbar Sympathetic Block. For Patients receiving a Radiofrequency Ablation, they will receive a phone call at two weeks, six weeks and again at six months.