PATIENT REPORTED OUTCOMES AFTER ULTRASOUND GUIDED HIATAL EPIDURAL STEROID INJECTION FOR LUMBAR RADICULOPATHY.

J Peop Univ Med Health Sci. 2025:15(2), 62-71. http://doi.org/10.46536/jpumhs/2025/15.02.624

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Ultrasound-guided hiatal epidural steroid injection is a minimally invasive intervention for lumbar radiculopathy. This study evaluates patient-reported outcomes following this procedure. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to assess patient-reported outcomes, including pain relief, functional improvement, and the need for additional interventions, following ultrasound-guided hiatal epidural steroid injection for lumbar radiculopathy. METHODS: This retrospective study analyzed 200 patients undergoing ultrasound-guided hiatal epidural steroid injection (2022–2024). Outcomes included VAS pain scores, functional improvement, additional interventions, satisfaction, and adverse events. Statistical analyses involved paired t-tests, chi-square tests, and multivariate regression. RESULTS: The mean age of participants was 48.3 ± 10.2 years, with 56% males. Baseline mean VAS was 7.2 ± 1.3, which significantly decreased to 4.3 ± 1.2 at one week, 3.1 ± 1.4 at one month, and 2.5 ± 1.2 at three months (p < 0.001). At three months, 62% of patients reported full functional recovery, 14% required repeat injections, and 6% were referred for surgery. Patient satisfaction was high, with 79% expressing a positive response. Adverse events occurred in 11% of patients, primarily transient pain flare-ups (9%). Regression analysis identified baseline VAS and BMI as significant predictors of pain relief (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Ultrasound-guided hiatal epidural steroid injection significantly improves pain and functional outcomes in lumbar radiculopathy patients, with minimal adverse effects. Higher baseline pain and BMI predict lower pain relief.