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Selective Nerve Root Block

A selective nerve root block (also known as a transforaminal epidural injection) is an injection immediately adjacent to a spinal nerve, which your doctor has identified as a possible cause for your symptoms due to irritation or compression. Under X-ray guidance, we will perform a targeted injection of local anesthetic (freezing) and cortisone (steroid) medications into the tissues surrounding the identified nerve. If this nerve is responsible for your symptoms, this injection is expected to diminish inflammation and provide some relief of your symptoms.

Patients receiving pain management treatments who need language interpretation or prefer to communicate in a language other than English are encouraged to bring a family member or friend to their appointment to assist with translation. This ensures that patients fully understand the procedure and necessary instructions. If the patient is unable to comprehend the instructions, the appointment may need to be rescheduled. As Mayfair does not provide language interpreters, it is essential for patients to make these arrangements in advance.

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MY PROCEDURE?

  • You must have had an MRI or CT within the past 24 months.
  • If you’ve had recent surgery, but not updated your images, please inform the booking coordinator prior to injection.
  • It is important to be off ALL blood thinners prior to injection. If this is not an option, please hold off on the procedure and consult with your doctor.
  • If you are currently taking antibiotics, you will need to wait two weeks after your last dose before having your injection.
  • Take all prescribed medications as directed.
  • You must have a driver accompany you to this appointment.
  • If you have diabetes, please eat one hour before your appointment.
  • Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment to allow enough time to check in with reception and fill out a consent form.
  • Bring photo identification and your provincial health card.
  • Wear comfortable clothes.
  • Please do not bring children who require supervision.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING MY PROCEDURE?

  • We will provide you with a comfortable clinic gown to change into.
  • A team member will review the consent form, explain procedure details, and answer any questions.
  • We will then escort you to our treatment suite where you will meet the radiologist who will clean the skin and inject a local anesthetic, similar to the freezing you get at the dentist.
  • The needle is then positioned under X-ray guidance and the correct location on the body is confirmed. To double-check the location, a short-acting anesthetic is injected in conjunction with neurologic testing. Once proper needle position is confirmed, the therapeutic medication is then injected.
  • It is possible you will feel pain or pressure similar to your normal back pain as the medicine is injected. This is a good sign and means the medicine is going to the right place. The pain usually disappears quickly.
  • A Band-Aid will be placed at the injection site, then you will be transferred to a wheelchair and brought into another room.
  • After 15 minutes, you will be checked for the expected injection response. If you are able to stand and walk safely, you will be free to leave with your driver.

POST-PROCEDURE INSTRUCTIONS

  • First 24 hours:
    • Keep the treatment area clean. Leave the Band-Aid on. Do not shower.
    • Avoid driving.
    • If possible, please avoid anti-inflammatory medication for 24 hours (i.e., ibuprofen/Advil).
    • A feeling of heaviness, numbness, or tingling in one or both legs is normal and could last for 4-6 hours.
  • First 48 hours:
    • Avoid bathtubs, hot tubs, and pools.
    • Avoid strenuous activities and lifting for 3-5 days.
  • After one week: You may resume strenuous activity, lifting, and physiotherapy. Be mindful of your pain and stop if it hurts too much. Notify your physiotherapist that you have had this injection so they can modify your exercises if necessary.
  • Watch for infection: If you develop worsening pain, skin redness at the site of injection, or a temperature greater than 38.5°C, please proceed to an urgent care or emergency centre.
  • If you have pain or other symptoms beyond 48 hours after your injection, this is a normal reaction. You may apply heat and ice to the treatment area. If you have any questions, please email us at paintherapy@radiology.ca during business hours.
  • Diabetics: Note that cortisone can cause a temporary increase in blood sugar. Please monitor your blood sugar closely and if you have any concerns, consult with your doctor.
  • Anti-coagulant therapy: You will be directed when to resume any anti-coagulant (blood thinners) medication.

WHEN WILL I SEE RESULTS?

  • After your injection, the freezing may last for a few hours. Your symptoms may return until the steroid takes effect in two weeks. Please track your symptom response to share with your physician.
  • These injections typically provide at least three months of symptom relief. If an injection does not help relieve your symptoms, then you may need further evaluation by your referring doctor for another cause of your symptoms.
  • Please consult with your doctor regarding your results and any follow up exams or questions.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

This exam is covered under your Alberta Health Care Plan. It is not currently offered at our Saskatchewan clinics.

PLEASE NOTE:

Please bring the following to your appointment: a valid government-issued ID, your provincial health card, and your exam requisition (if you have received one).

FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT

Please ensure that you bring your requisition with you to your appointment.

DURATION

30-40 minutes

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does the injection take to work?
After your injection, the freezing may last for a few hours. Your symptoms may return until the steroid takes effect in two weeks. Please track your symptom response to share with your physician.
How long will the injection last?
These injections typically provide at least three months of symptom relief. If an injection does not help relieve your symptoms, then you may need further evaluation by your referring doctor for another cause of your symptoms.
What are the potential side effects?
Feeling of heaviness, numbness or tingling on the affected leg is normal and can last for 4-6 hours. Some people also experience headaches which typically respond to caffeine, Tylenol or Ibuprofen, proper hydration, and lying flat. If your headache hasn’t resolved itself after 24-48 hours, or you cannot employ the above recommendations, please see your referring physician.
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Radiologist

Radiologists are specialized physicians who interpret diagnostic imaging to diagnose and monitor a wide range of medical conditions. At Mayfair Diagnostics, they review X-ray, ultrasound, CT, and MRI studies, among others, analyzinsg images in detail and providing comprehensive reports and clinical recommendations to referring physicians. They collaborate closely with technologists and clinic teams to guide imaging protocols, ensure quality and radiation safety standards, and may perform image-guided procedures such as biopsies or injections. Through their expertise and teamwork, radiologists play a key role in accurate diagnosis, effective treatment planning, and improved patient outcomes.

Administration

Administrative professionals support the organization across human resources, marketing, operations, strategic partnerships, finance, information technology, and infrastructure. From recruiting staff to promoting services and improving workflows, they help ensure smooth operations and positive experiences for employees and patients. Through collaboration with clinical and support teams, they provide essential coordination that enables efficient, high-quality service.

Diagnostic Imaging Assistant

Diagnostic Imaging Assistant (DIA) support clinic operations and help ensure a positive patient experience. They assist staff by greeting and preparing patients, confirming information, coordinating appointments, and guiding patients through their visit. DIAs also maintain exam rooms, manage documentation, and ensure supplies and equipment are ready. Through strong customer service, attention to detail, and teamwork, they help create a safe and organized environment.

Patient Experience Coordinator

Patient Experience Coordinators (PECs) are the first point of contact, scheduling exams and ensuring accurate patient information. They communicate clearly with patients, coordinate with care teams, and support a smooth, confidential, and customer-focused experience.

Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Nuclear Medical Technologists perform diagnostic nuclear medicine procedures involving sensitive and highly personal patient circumstances. They are responsible for delivering the highest standard of care in a professional, compassionate, and patient-centered manner, in accordance with provincial regulatory requirements, CAMRT standards, and Mayfair policies and guidelines.

CT Technologist

Computed Tomography (CT) Technologists operate CT imaging equipment to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the body that assist in diagnosing a wide range of medical conditions. They prepare and position patients for scans, ensure safety protocols are followed, and administer contrast agents when required. CT technologists work closely with radiologists to ensure high-quality diagnostic images are obtained, while providing clear communication and compassionate care to support patient comfort throughout the procedure.

MRI Technologist

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologists operates MRI scanners to produce detailed images of internal body structures used to assist in medical diagnosis and treatment planning. They are responsible for preparing and positioning patients, ensuring all safety protocols are strictly followed due to the strong magnetic field, and obtaining high-quality images as directed by radiologists. MRI technologists combine technical expertise with patient care, providing clear communication and support to ensure a safe, comfortable, and efficient imaging experience.

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer

Diagnostic Medical Sonographers perform ultrasound exams to help diagnose and monitor medical conditions. Following Sonography Canada standards and Mayfair Diagnostics protocols, they capture accurate images while ensuring patient safety, comfort, and confidentiality. They work with radiologists and clinical teams to review requisitions, prepare patients, perform scans, and document findings, contributing to accurate diagnoses and a positive patient experience.

Medical Radiation Technologist

Medical Radiation Technologists (MRTs) perform x-ray, mammography, and BMD exams while ensuring patient safety, accuracy, and compassionate care.  They also may assist in pain therapy procedures. MRTs verify patient information, explain procedures, position patients, and produce high-quality images. MRTs follow professional standards and protocols, maintaining strict radiation safety, quality assurance, and patient privacy while supporting a positive patient experience.

Our Culture

We foster a supportive and collaborative culture designed to encourage positive patient experiences and build strong working relationships across the organization:

  • We recognize each other for our contributions – big and small.
  • We focus on teamwork and personal accountability to achieve our goals.
  • When we commit to deadlines, we complete the work as promised, by when we promised. If we realize we can’t keep our commitments, we collaborate to find new deadlines well in advance of the original ones.
  • We feel safe to speak up responsibly. That means we freely share what’s on our minds in a way that is respectful and supports the success of the organization.
  • We commit to our patients and their needs. We show up each day ready to live our vision, mission, and values.
  • We challenge each other to grow and develop our skills and we support each other to do so.
  • Above all, we go the extra mile to support our patients and colleagues. 

Our Values.

Our core values shape the way we work with patients, partners, and fellow employees. And, more than anything else, they’re what set Mayfair apart. In everything we do, this is what we strive for:

EXCELLENCE

We share a commitment to high quality and excellence in all that we do. This commitment calls on all of us to achieve the very best of our capabilities and exceed our own expectations.

CURIOSITY

We innovate in everything, from services to processes. We believe meaningful change and effective problem solving come only by looking at challenges and opportunities from new angles and by exercising our creativity and curiosity.

PASSION

We show pride, enthusiasm, and dedication in everything that we do. We are committed to producing and delivering high-quality results and services. We are passionate about our industry and about our company, services, partners, and patients.

COLLABORATION

Our team is supportive of each other’s efforts; we are loyal to one another; and we care for one another both personally and professionally. We promote and support a diverse, yet unified, team. We work together to meet our common goals across Mayfair clinics, locations, and geographies. Only through collaboration on ideas, technologies, and talents can we achieve our mission and vision.

SERVICE

We take pride in delivering exceptional service every day. We listen to every request with an open mind, always looking for opportunities to go above and beyond to create memorable, personalized experiences. We take responsibility to answer our referrers’ and patients’ requests and respect their time by always responding with a sense of urgency.

Start with us.

Join Mayfair Diagnostics, recognized as one of Western Canada’s premier medical imaging organizations. With a century-long legacy and headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Mayfair Diagnostics is dedicated to assisting patients in achieving clarity regarding their health.

Operating clinics in Calgary and surrounding areas, Regina, and Saskatoon, our multidisciplinary team of radiologists, technologists, and support staff collaborate seamlessly to deliver high quality patient care. Working here is more than just a job; it’s a strong step towards your future.

OUR TEAMS

We are a dedicated group of professionals who combine skill with compassion to deliver attentive care to our patients. As a reliable partner in their health care journey, we provide high-quality imaging that assists patients, physicians, and other providers in making informed health decisions. Our work goes beyond imaging; it’s about fostering relationships and positively impacting everyone we serve.

OUR VISION

We envision a world where every person has clarity about their health. We innovate and welcome change, promoting leadership and creativity through safe risk-taking. We share best practices, earn peer recognition for our work, and engage top talent to reach our goals.

We strive to be thought leaders and encourage creativity by providing a safe place for calculated risk taking.

We share best practices across our operations and are recognized by our peers for our work. We engage the best to help propel us forward in achieving our goals.