Patient Information Library

Hardware Injection

What is a Hardware Injection?

This injection procedure is performed on patients who have undergone a fusion and have had hardware placed. This procedure will determine if the pain is originating from the hardware. The steroid medication can reduce the swelling and inflammation near the hardware. If the injection relieves the patient’s pain, the surgeon may decide to remove the patient’s hardware.

What happens during the procedure?

An antibiotic is given by IV to reduce the risk of infection. Then the physician will administer a local anesthetic numbs the skin and tissue below.  The physician locates the hardware using a fluoroscope. Using a needle the physician then slides the needle through the anesthesized track. Under fluoroscope, the physician guides the needle toward the hardware.  A steroid-anesthetic mix is injected near the hardware.  The needles are removed, and a small band-aid will be used to cover the tiny needle surface wound.

For what reasons should I call the Spine Associates Pain Management Center after the injection?

If you experience new shortness of breath 24 - 48 hours after the injection or any signs of infection in the area of the injection, you should call the Spine Associates Pain Management Center right away at (713) 383-7100.

To Learn More

If you are interested in an evaluation into the cause of your pain, please contact our pain management experts at Spine Associates in Houston, TX and Beaumont, TX.  We would be happy to make an appointment for a consultation and provide additional information about other treatment options.