[Chronic cervico-brachial neuralgia treated by cervical epidural injection of corticosteroids. Long-term results].
OBJECTIVE
To assess long-term results of a single cervical epidural corticosteroid injection (CECI) in patients suffering from chronic cervicobrachial neuralgia (CCBN).


METHODS
Open prospective study.


METHODS
A CECI was performed in 29 patients suffering for more than 12 months from a non-compressive and non-surgical CCBN with permanent pain for at least three months non relieved by an adequately conducted medical treatment.


METHODS
The cervical epidural space was injected (C7-T1, 18 G needle) with an increasing volume (maximum 10 mL) of isotonic saline solution to exacerbate patient's cervicobrachial pain. The patients then received an equivalent volume of 0.5% lidocaine plus triamcinolone acetonide (10 mg.mL-1). The pain decrease was estimated on a visual analogic scale (VAS), in comparison to intensity of pain rated at 100 mm before CECI.


RESULTS
The mean volume injected into the epidural space was 6 +/- 2 mL. It increased pain in 26 out of 29 patients. After 3 months, a success rate of 83% was obtained, with a pain rate of 12 mm on VAS. Concerning mid- and long-term results, pain relief remained stable for at least 24 months (mean follow-up: 48 +/- 18 months). Simultaneously, the need for analgesics decreased significantly.


CONCLUSIONS
A single CECI in patients suffering from non-compressive and non-surgical CCBN results in long-lasting pain relief.
Grenier
B
B
Département d'Anesthésie-Réanimation III, CHU Pellegrin, Bordeaux.
Castagnera
L
L
Maurette
P
P
Erny
P
P
Senegas
J
J
D000287:Administration, Topical; D000328:Adult; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D020968:Brachial Plexus Neuritis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D002574:Cervical Vertebrae; D002908:Chronic Disease; D005260:Female; D005938:Glucocorticoids; D006801:Humans; D007268:Injections, Epidural; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010147:Pain Measurement; D011446:Prospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014222:Triamcinolone Acetonide / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D005938:Glucocorticoids; D014222:Triamcinolone Acetonide
Névralgie cervico-brachiale chronique traitée par injection péridurale cervicale de corticoïdes. Résultats à long terme.