You will be placed on an examination table in a radiology suite, which contains equipment for imaging. You will be connected to monitors to watch your blood pressure and heart rate during the procedure. An IV will be inserted by a CRNA (certified register nurse anestatist) so that the sedative medication can be administered.
The small area where the needle will enter your body will be shaved and sterilized, then covered with a surgical drape.
A local anesthetic will be applied before the needle enters your skin. The local anesthetic is applied with a needle, so you will feel a small pinprick.
Once the area is numb, the needle is guided through your skin to the precise location where treatment is needed. The guidance is done by watching the needle with live x-ray, called fluoroscopy. You may feel a slight pressure, but no serious discomfort.
After the treatment has been done, the needle is removed. Your exam table will be wheeled into the recovery area until you feel comfortable and ready to leave.