Fig. 16

Diagrammatic representation of the cervical facet joints (a) with transverse (B) and sagittal sections (C). A lateral approach as represented in blue (b, c) may lead to perforation of major vessels and dura or nerve root sheaths. A posterior approach targeting the inferior recess as represented in red (a, b) may be safer because all major neurovascular structures are protected by the articular pillar. The needle is inserted until bone contact and the adequate position is confirmed by opacification of the joint space (d)