Treatments

What is an Epidural Blood Patch?

An epidural blood patch involves drawing a small amount of your own blood and injecting it into the epidural space — the area surrounding the spinal cord. The blood forms a clot over the leak in the dura, helping restore normal spinal fluid pressure and relieve symptoms like headaches, nausea, dizziness, and neck stiffness.

This treatment is especially helpful for people dealing with post-dural puncture headaches (PDPH) after procedures like spinal taps or epidural anesthesia. When left untreated, these leaks can lead to ongoing discomfort and complications.

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Learn more about pain therapy treatments at Midwest Vascular and Pain Specialists.

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Symptoms of a Spinal Fluid Leak

One of the most common signs of a spinal fluid leak is a headache that gets worse when you're standing or sitting, and feels better when you lie down. Other symptoms might include:

• Neck pain or stiffness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sensitivity to light or sound
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Dizziness or trouble with balance

If you’ve had a lumbar puncture, epidural, or spinal surgery and are experiencing these symptoms, an epidural blood patch may be the most effective next step.

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Explore other non-surgical pain treatments.

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How is an Epidural Blood Patch Performed?

This procedure is done in an outpatient setting and usually takes around 30 minutes. First, a small amount of blood is drawn from your arm. Then, using imaging guidance, it’s injected near the site of the spinal fluid leak. The blood naturally clots, sealing the hole in the dura and helping restore pressure balance.

You’ll be monitored briefly after the procedure and then can return home. Many patients feel better right away, while others notice steady improvement within a day.

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Benefits of an Epidural Blood Patch

• Relief from headache symptoms — often immediately
• A minimally invasive solution with quick recovery
• No need for long-term pain medication
• Treats the root cause, not just the symptoms
• High success rate for sealing leaks

In some cases, if symptoms return, a second blood patch may be needed for full relief.

Read about other advanced pain management techniques.

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Recovery and Long-Term Outlook

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Most people feel significantly better within 24 hours. To allow the blood clot to properly seal the leak, we recommend avoiding any strenuous activity, bending, or heavy lifting for at least 48 hours afterward.

For those who may need future spinal procedures, it’s worth talking with your doctor about anesthesia options to reduce the risk of another leak. In rare situations where symptoms persist, further imaging or additional treatments may be needed.

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FAQs

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How long does it take for an epidural blood patch to work?
Most people start to feel better within a few hours, but full relief might take a day or two as the blood clot fully seals the leak.

Is an epidural blood patch painful?
It’s generally not painful. You might feel some pressure or mild discomfort during the injection, but it’s short-lived and typically goes away quickly.

What are the risks of an epidural blood patch?
Side effects are uncommon. Some people experience mild back soreness, a low-grade fever, or slight changes in blood pressure - but serious complications are rare when the procedure is done by a trained specialist.

Does insurance cover an epidural blood patch?
Yes, most insurance plans do cover this procedure when it’s needed to treat a confirmed spinal fluid leak. Our team will help you verify your benefits and make sure everything’s in place.

Why Choose Midwest Vascular and Pain Specialists for Epidural Blood Patch Therapy?

At Midwest Vascular and Pain Specialists, we’re experienced in advanced, minimally invasive procedures like the epidural blood patch and we’re also here to help you feel like yourself again.

• Our pain specialists are experts in spine-related procedures
• We use advanced imaging for accuracy and effectiveness
• Your care plan is always personalized to fit your needs and recovery goals

If you’ve been dealing with persistent headaches or symptoms after a spinal procedure, reach out to us! We're here to help you find lasting relief.