This study aims to evaluate the reliability of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound (USG) in predicting needle depth during cervical epidural injections, compared to fluoroscopy. The goal is to identify alternative imaging methods that reduce radiation exposure while maintaining procedural accuracy and patient safety.
Cervical epidural steroid injections (CESI) are commonly used to manage chronic neck and radicular pain. Accurate needle placement is critical for the success and safety of the procedure. Fluoroscopy is the standard method for guiding the needle; however, it exposes patients and clinicians to ionizing radiation. This study compares pre-procedural MRI and USG measurements of needle depth with fluoroscopy-guided needle depth during CESI. Primary Objective: Assess the agreement between MRI, USG, and fluoroscopy measurements of needle depth using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) within a ±0.3 cm tolerance. Secondary Objectives: Evaluate the correlation between fluoroscopic lateral imaging frequency and radiation exposure. The study is a methodological observational study conducted at Ankara Etlik City Hospital, involving adult patients undergoing CESI. Data will be collected retrospectively and prospectively for eligible participants.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
90
This intervention involves cervical epidural steroid injection (CESI) for patients with chronic neck and radicular pain. Needle depth is measured pre-procedurally using MRI and ultrasound to predict the ideal needle placement. Fluoroscopy is used during the procedure to confirm and compare these measurements, aiming to evaluate the accuracy of imaging techniques and minimize radiation exposure.
Ankara Etlik City Hospital
Ankara, Ankara, Turkey (Türkiye)
Accuracy of Needle Depth Prediction Using MRI and Ultrasound Compared to Fluoroscopy in Cervical Epidural Steroid Injections
The primary outcome measure evaluates the reliability and accuracy of pre-procedural needle depth measurements obtained using MRI and ultrasound imaging compared to intra-procedural fluoroscopy during cervical epidural steroid injections. The goal is to determine the concordance between these imaging techniques and assess their utility in reducing procedural radiation exposure.
Time frame: 1 day (during the procedure)
Radiation Exposure During Cervical Epidural Steroid Injections
The secondary outcome measure assesses the level of radiation exposure (in mGy) experienced by patients and practitioners during cervical epidural steroid injections when fluoroscopy is used. Comparisons will be made to determine if the use of pre-procedural MRI or ultrasound reduces fluoroscopy duration and radiation exposure.
Time frame: 1 day (during the procedure)
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