Inpatient
A caudal epidural is an injection of local anaesthetic and hydrocortisone into the spinal canal to reduce inflammation around nerve roots and discs. It is largely used to reduce leg symptoms. The caudal route means the needle is inserted around the coccyx which reduces the risks of nerve root injury and CSF leak although it does not remove it entirely.
The procedure works by reducing inflammation commonly caused by disc prolapses or stenosis.
It is a rapid procedure of a few minutes duration.
The risks are infection, CSF or spinal fluid leak giving a headache or very rarely nerve injury