Interventional treatment for low back pain: general risks.

The commonly performed spinal procedures, such as epidural injections, spinal nerve blocks, zygapophysial joint (z-joint) interventions, and discography, are reported to be safe. However, diagnostic and therapeutic spinal interventions can lead to serious complications, although their incidence seems to be low. Knowledge of potential complications is still required to minimize risks. This article describes the risks associated with the most commonly performed procedures, precautions that can be taken to minimize these risks, and treatment options available once complications have occurred. This article describes the risks associated with the most commonly performed procedures, precautions that can be taken to minimize these risks, and treatment options available once complications have occurred.