Role of the radiologist in the management of pain

Radiologists are taking an expanding role in the management of pain. The procedures most commonly used at our institution are facet blocks, peripheral nerve blocks, peripheral nerve ablations, ganglion ablations, chemoinfusions, chemoembolizations, and embolizations alone. CT is used for the facet, ganglion, and peripheral nerve procedures. The techniques for these procedures will be stressed, as meticulous technique is imperative. The radiologist must work closely with the attending clinician to determine both the neurologic level and to monitor therapy. The University of South Florida pain team flow sheet and pain evaluation method is presented