Fast-Track
Information
Patient Handout ñ Please print this and give to patients being sent
for the procedures.
Fast-Track Referral System:
1. It allows the patient to be seen for a specific
procedure within one (1) to four (4) days. In many instances, if the patient is
willing and the below requirements are met, we may be able to accommodate the
patient the same day of the referral.
2. This system is available for the following procedures:
a. Epidural Steroid Injection (Cervical - Thoracic - Lumbar - Caudal)
b. Selective Nerve Root Block(s).
c. Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injection
d. Facet Block
e. Sacroiliac Joint Injection
3. The patient has to be NPO x 6 hours.
4. The patient cannot be taking any blood thinners or anticoagulants.
a. Aspirin,
Plavix, Ticlid, and any other
similarly acting medications: Must have been discontinued eleven (11) days
prior to procedure.
b. Coumadin: Must have been discontinued four (4) days prior to
procedure.
5. The patient should bring a responsible adult driver. Having a Taxi is not
acceptable. The accompanying adult should be strong enough to help the patient
ambulate, in the event of extremity weakness, secondary to the local
anesthetics.
6. Patients should avoid making any plans after the
appointment.
7. The appointment is specific for the desired procedure.
No lengthy evaluations should be expected.
8. The Pain Specialist will not be taking over any
medication management in a "Fast-Track Referral"
9. Exceptions - Patients with the following conditions or problems should not be sent for ìFast-Trackî
procedures:
a. Severe Coronary Artery Disease
b. Recent Myocardial Infarction of less than 6 (six) month
c. Mental Retardation or Unstable Psychiatric Disorders
d. Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus
e. Recent CVA or TIAs
10. Contraindications:
a. Patients with bleeding problems.
b. Patients on anticoagulants or blood thinners.
c. Patients with active infections.
d. Patients unable to follow instructions or care for
themselves.