Effectiveness of interlaminar and transforaminal approach for cervical epidural steroid injection in patients of chronic neck pain with radiculopathy

Cervical epidural steroid injections (CESIs) are commonly used to manage chronic neck pain with radiculopathy, a condition characterized by nerve irritation or compression leading to pain radiating from the neck to the arms. Two primary approaches for administering CESIs are the interlaminar and transforaminal techniques.

The interlaminar approach delivers the steroid medication into the epidural space through a midline or paramedian insertion, allowing for broader drug distribution. Conversely, the transforaminal approach involves precise delivery near the affected nerve root, targeting the site of inflammation more directly. Both approaches are effective in reducing pain and improving functional outcomes. However, the choice of technique may depend on factors such as the location and severity of the pathology, patient anatomy, and the physician’s expertise. While the interlaminar approach is associated with a lower risk of specific complications, the transforaminal method may provide faster and more targeted relief.