Fluoroscopic Angles in S1 Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injections: Effects on Procedure Time

<title>Abstract</title> <p>Objectives To evaluate the average fluoroscopic angles used in S1 TESI and to assess their effect on procedure time. Patients and methods:: This observational study included patients who underwent unilateral, single-level S1 TESI between July 2024 and January 2025. Demographic data, procedure time, and fluoroscopic cranio-caudal and oblique angles were analyzed to assess their association with procedure duration. Results A total of 51 patients were included in the study. The mean cranial and oblique angles at which the procedures were performed were 13.2 (± 5.19) and 9.2 (± 5.58), respectively. The mean procedure time of the patients were 28.46 seconds (16–93). Cranial angle demonstrated a moderate correlation with procedure time, whereas oblique angle, age, and sex had no significant effect. Furthermore, it was found that the procedure time was significantly shorter in the group where the procedure was performed at lower cranial angles. Conclusion In the present study, the average fluoroscopic angles used during S1 TESI were evaluated, and it was determined that excessive cranial angles cause the procedure time to be prolonged.</p>