Epidurolisis and Epiduroscopy

Epiduroscopy is an advanced technique in the treatment of chronic pain that consists of the introduction of a steerable catheter with a thinner optical fiber in the region near the coccyx that will allow working the area that causes pain. It is used to release adhesions and control sciatic pain.

• Radicular type pain (sciatica) after spine surgery
• Lumbar canal stenosis pain

In order to correctly apply this treatment and obtain the effectiveness it can provide, a correct diagnosis and evaluation of the patient is essential. The doctor will ask specific questions that, together with the physical examination and evaluation of the complementary tests, will allow a more precise determination of the cause or causes of the pain.

The treatment lasts 45 minutes -2h approximately.

• Sedation and local anesthesia
• Freeing up space
• No hospitalization is required in most cases.

Am I a good candidate for Epidurolisis?

This procedure is ideal if you suffer from chronic low back pain or sciatica that has not improved with other treatments such as physical therapy, medications or conventional infiltrations. It is especially effective for “failed back surgery syndrome”, that is, when pain persists after an operation.

How is the procedure performed and is it painful?

The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis in an operating room, under light sedation and local anesthesia. It is not painful; you will feel a slight pressure. Through a small incision near the coccyx, we introduce a flexible catheter to the affected area to apply the medication and release the scars. The process takes about 30 minutes.

What can I expect after treatment? What is the recovery time?

After the procedure, you will be observed for approximately one hour and then you can go home. Relative rest for 24 hours is recommended. Many patients experience significant improvement in pain in the days and weeks that follow, allowing them to resume their activities and improve their quality of life.

What is the difference with a normal epidural infiltration?

While a standard epidural infiltration only deposits anti-inflammatory medication into the epidural space, epidurolysis is a more comprehensive procedure. It not only administers medication, but also uses a special catheter to mechanically break up the adhesions or scars that are compressing the nerves, thus treating the direct cause of the pain.

What results can I expect with Epidurolisis?

The goal of epidurolysis is to achieve a significant and lasting reduction in pain, reduce the need for painkillers and improve your ability to move and perform your daily activities. It is an opportunity to regain control over your life and leave chronic pain behind.