What does DMBB mean in HOSPITALS

A Diagnostic Medical Branch Block (DMBB) is a medical procedure that involves the injection of a local anesthetic and/or steroid medication at specific sites around nerve roots. This nerve block is used to diagnose the source of pain, reduce inflammation, and provide relief from pain in an area of the body.

DMBBs are typically performed by highly trained professionals with experience in administering injections for the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions. These include orthopedic surgeons, physiatrists (physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists), radiologists, anaesthesiologists, neurologists or other physician specialists.

The most common uses for Diagnostic Medical Branch Blocks are to diagnose Aspect Syndrome (nerve entrapment), lumbar degenerative disc disease, sciatica related to disc herniation or spinal stenosis, piriformis syndrome or sacroiliac joint dysfunction. Other medical conditions where a DMBB may be considered include tendonopathies such as rotator cuff injuries, postherpetic neuralgia due to shingles infection, pelvic floor dysfunction resulting in chronic pelvic pain syndrome and trigeminal neuralgia (nerve related facial pain).

Generally speaking, DMBBs have minimal risks and side effects compared to many other invasive treatments such as surgery. Common side effects can include temporary numbness or bruising at the injection site; however these symptoms will usually resolve within 1-2 days after the procedure. Severe complications such as infections or damage to nerves may occur but are exceedingly rare due to modern injection techniques used during a DMBB procedure.

Depending on the size and location of the area being injected as well as type of medication used, most Diagnostic Medical Brach Block procedures last between 30 minutes up to one hour. Injections generally require minimal preparation before they can be administered so patients should plan accordingly when scheduling appointments for their treatments.