(This is the section that explains the detail of the operation or procedure above and should be read in conjunction with the section called your back operation).

A caudal block is performed for a pain that is caused inflammation and irritation in the spinal canal. The aim of the operation is to reduce the inflammation inside the spinal canal. This will then bring partial or complete (but temporary) relief of the pain, spasm and referred pain that this inflammation around the nerves can cause.

The reason that your surgeon performs this procedure and not a larger operation is because he or she is trying to be as conservative as possible in doing your surgery. The aim is to treat your symptoms without resorting to large open operation. Consult a surgeon that is proficient in these techniques as well as the usual open surgery techniques.

When undergoing this procedure, you will be lying on your stomach on bolsters or pillows during your procedure. Your surgeon will use a X-ray machine to guide the needles that is used to do the procedures with. The needle is placed directly into the sacral hiatus - this is at the bottom end of the spine - and a mixture of steroids and local anaesthetic is injected into the sacral hiatus (also called caudal hiatus).

Ward care
You may sometimes have a bit of discomfort directly following the procedure, but this will clear up very soon. You will be allowed to move around freely following your procedure.

Discharge
This procedure is usually performed as a day procedure.

Rehabilitation
It is incredibly important to get a lot of rest and exercise following your surgery. It is frequently useful to supplement your treatment with physiotherapy and local treatment such as massage therapy and chiropractic treatment.
Follow up
You will usually be seen after six weeks but will be seen earlier if there are any complications. It is important to realise that you will have to protect your back the rest of your life with good back habits. See the section on exercises to see what you can do to keep your back healthy.