Dr. Ana Carolina Braz Lima discusses techniques used for different cervical blocks, such as medial branch blocks. Dr. Braz Lima describes how understanding anatomy can assist with cervical blocks. Then, Dr. Stanley Lam describes testing procedures for CIPS during a technical difficulty. When Dr. Braz Lima returns, she continues her discourse of nervous system anatomy. Knowing where arteries are is important. X-Rays can also be helpful. She also says you need to be familiar with a procedure’s complications

Dr. Kenneth B. Chapman discusses vertebral augmentation. He gives a history of this procedure, starting with its conception 1984. Research since then has been sparse at times, but also promising. Osteoporosis is the primary condition associated with vertebral augmentation. Dr. Chapman discusses several different research studies. Cancer patients may also benefit from this procedure. With the appropriately selected patient, vertebral augmentation is a safe and effective procedure.

Dr. Vikram Patel discusses ways to optimize radiation protection. Protecting patients, doctors, and staff from radiation is incredibly important. There are many hazards of radiation to the human body. However, there is a need for radiation in pain work, so how can radiation be minimized? Positioning and protection are key. Reducing time of exposure or reducing output can help. It is also to check exposure levels over time, as radiation accumulates. These ideas and more are described.

Dr. Athma Thottungal describes ultrasound, diagnosis, and procedures of the peripheral nerves of the upper extremity. She concentrates on the cervical sympathetic trunk as an example. Cervicothoracic ganglion blocks, also known as the stellate ganglion, can be difficult to treat. Knowing your target is important, she says, and this will also influence the tools you use for diagnosing, as well as the procedure performed.