Techniques in medicine: ipsilateral transforaminal epidural steroid injection in Bertolotti’s syndrome

Abstract

Bertolotti’s syndrome, also known as lumbosacral transitional vertebrae, is a relatively rare spinal condition characterized by an anatomical variation in the lower spine. Conservative approaches such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications and lifestyle modifications may be recommended for mild cases. In more severe cases or when conservative measures fail to provide relief, injections such as may be considered to alleviate pain. This case is unique in that we document a challenging technique of ipsilateral transforaminal epidural steroid injection in a patient with Bertolotti’s syndrome.

Tweetable abstract

Bertolotti’s syndrome is a rare spinal condition characterized by an anatomical variation in the lower spine. Injections are done for cases refractory to conservative management. We document a challenging technique of ipsilateral transforaminal epidural steroid injection.

Keywords: :

• analgesia
• chronic pain
• low-back pain
• pain
• pain assessment
• pain management

Author contributions

PD Vu conducted a literature review, wrote the manuscript, and edited it. CL Robinson provided review, wrote the manuscript and critical revisions to the manuscript. O Viswanath provided review and critical revisions to the manuscript. I Urits provided review and critical revisions to the manuscript. J Hasoon conceived the presented idea, provided discussion and edits for the manuscript, provided supervision with writing and provided medical care to the patient.

Financial disclosure

The authors have no financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.

Competing interests disclosure

The authors have no competing interests or relevant affiliations with any organization or entity with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.

Writing assistance

No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.

Ethical conduct of research

The patient provided written consent for the inclusion of their medical and treatment history within this case report. IRB approval was not required with deidentification and anonymization of identifiable medical information, per UTHealth McGovern Medical School’s IRB protocol.