Ambulatory Procedure Center

Intercostal

What Is It?

An injection of a local anesthetic and cortisone in the area of your back. This injection will help to reduce pain in your rib area.

How Do I Prepare?

• Be sure to arrange a ride to and from the hospital. You are not allowed to drive after your procedure.
• Eat a light meal prior to your procedure.
• Shower thoroughly before coming in for your procedure.
• Discuss with your doctor what medications you should take.
• If you are taking medication to thin your blood (e.g., Coumadin, Warfarin, Plavix, or aspirin), you should check with your doctor about stopping these medications before this procedure.
• Medication that your doctor has instructed you to take can be taken with a small amount of water.
• Be sure to arrange transportation. Someone must stay with you at the hospital until discharge and drive you home. Transportation will be verified before the procedure. You may use a taxi cab for your transportation only if you have a person accompanying you other than the taxi cab driver. Your procedure may be cancelled if these arrangements are not made.

What Happens During the Procedure?

• Consent is signed.
• An injection is done.
• An ice pack will be applied to the injection site.
• The procedure takes about 10-15 minutes.
• Recovery time is 45 minutes.