frequent procedures
 

OCCIPITAL NERVE BLOCK
Occipital nerve block is done to treat occipital neuralgia. Occipital neuralgia is headache-mediated through the posterior cranial mass, running on the posterior aspect of the head, into the scalp region, and producing constant head pain and headaches, due to pathology often presented to the pathological spine region. These are easily relieved by instillation of local anesthetics, with or with Depo-steroid, along the pathway of this nerve in the posterior occipital region for control of pain. The procedure is done usually with the patient in a sitting position with the neck slightly flexed, resting on a stable surface, usually the examination bed, with a pillow adjusted for the forehead to rest on. Injection is done with approximately 3 to 4 cc of 1 percent lidocaine, mixed with 20 mg to 40 mg of Depo-Medrol at each of the occipital nerve locations, including the greater occipital nerve and the lesser occipital nerve on each side. A tiny needle, up to a 5-guage needle, will suffice. The procedure itself is usually tolerable and not very comfortable.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Nil of note, except for allergy.

COMPLICATIONS: Usually rare, in experienced interventional pain physicians.

SEDATIVES: Sedation is not usually required. The treatment is brief and effective.
 

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