Deb, I'm with Kathi and Snoozie on this; there is no way any doctor would ever do a procedure on me if that doctor isn't using flouroscopy.

In this day an age, it is plainly barbaric for a doctor to risk doing a blind approach. A little guesswork here and there and that is what poses high risks.

Now that you know about ESIs, you've got something to ask other doctors about - ones who will use flouroscopy.

When the machine has been down at the surgery center, my doc has cancelled the procedure. He ain't a fool. Nor am I.

Please find another doctor... but, first, just to be sure:

I'd call the doctor's office again and ask if you can speak with a PA (Physician's Assistant), not the receptionist. Possibly, the reception mis-spoke - especially if s/he has not been present during an ESI. The receptionist could be mistaken. I'd want to find out for sure before deciding.