{"id":"cade0cd0-6723-408f-b835-050d092d5171","slug":"re-the-risks-of-epidural-and-transforaminal-steroid-injections-in-the-spine-commentary-and-a-comprehensive-review-of-the-literature","title":"RE: The risks of epidural and transforaminal steroid injections in the spine: Commentary and a comprehensive review of the literature","authors":["Laxmaiah Manchikanti","Alan D. Kaye","Joshua A. Hirsch"],"abstract":"Background: The commentary by Dr. Epstein addresses the risks associated with epidural and transforaminal steroid injections in the spine. The authors express concern regarding the lack of evidence supporting Dr. Epstein's claims and interpretations of the literature. They argue that the commentary discredits interventional techniques without adequately recognizing the complexities involved in these procedures. Methods: The authors critique Dr. Epstein's literature review, suggesting that it selectively includes negative studies while ignoring positive outcomes from other research. They emphasize the need for a comprehensive assessment of all relevant literature, including randomized trials, to evaluate the efficacy and complications of epidural injections. Results: The authors contend that Dr. Epstein's conclusions about the risks of epidural injections, including high complication rates, are not substantiated by the literature. They highlight that multiple studies demonstrate the effectiveness of epidural injections in providing pain relief and improving functional status over time. Conclusion: The authors believe that Dr. Epstein's commentary misrepresents the evidence surrounding epidural and transforaminal steroid injections. They call for a more balanced review of the literature that accurately reflects both the risks and benefits of these interventional procedures. Keywords: epidural injections, transforaminal injections, steroid injections, complications, literature review, interventional techniques, pain management","thumbnailUrl":"https://sni-digital-videos.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/cade0cd0-6723-408f-b835-050d092d5171/featured/hero-1782421005645.png","publishDate":"2014-03-25T00:00:00.000Z","doi":"10.4103/2152-7806.129429","categories":["Original Article"],"fullTextUrl":"https://surgicalneurologyint.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/3921/SNI-5-38.pdf"}