ID: 214900 Utilizing Double Needle Technique to Mitigate Risk of Infection During Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injection

Abstract

Introduction: The double needle (two-needle) technique is widely used while performing intradiscal steroid injections. The technique provides increased control during placement of the needle in the desired location. Superior, the double needle technique also theoretically provides protection and infection control against potential seeding of pathogens in the intradiscal space. The technique is preferred even without much scientific data as the proposed benefit adds a layer of protection to the intradiscal space and vertebral discs which are notoriously difficult to treat for infections due to minimal blood supply in the area.