Careful assessment of the safety of performing this procedure will be done as the patient’s general health, allergies, the use of blood-thinning medication, other medications and conditions such as anxiety, depression, needle phobia will be taken into consideration.

The procedure is performed in a theatre suite under aseptic conditions. It is been given at the bottom of the spine while the patient is lying on his front been fully awake and thus able to report any discomfort during the procedure. It is done under the guidance of X-ray or ultrasound for best accuracy and safety. Leg weakness or numbness, numbness in the perineum with some hesitancy in voiding urine, are common immediate side effects that are short-lived. 

All other side effects and complications are fully explained in the patient information leaflet.  The patient is been looked after and closely monitored for at least one hour. Checks of blood pressure, heart rate are been done every 5-10 minutes. The patient’s legs muscle power and sensation will be tested, the patient will enjoy a drink and a snack before been allowed to go home. 

The patient should not drive or use public transport following the procedure. A responsible adult should be with the patient for the first 24 hours following the treatment.

The patient will be followed up for re-examination, advice on continuing/discontinuing painkilling medication and further rehabilitation four weeks after the procedure.