Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic pain in the spine. Radiofrequency ablation (sometimes incorrectly referred to as “rhizotomy”) uses heat to modify the nerve fibers that transmit pain signals. This procedure can be effective for treating chronic pain conditions, such as arthritis of different joints. Radiofrequency ablation is often used to treat back pain, specifically due to facet joint arthritis or whiplash injury. Lighthouse Spine Center has a team of experienced physicians who specialize in performing these procedures with precision and care to ensure optimal results for our patients.
What is Radiofrequency ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure used to reduce pain in the spine by disrupting nerve signals. Radiofrequency ablation for back pain is a procedure that targets the nerves that are transmitting pain signals from the spine to the brain. By using radiofrequency waves to disrupt these nerves, the patient can experience significant relief from their back pain. This treatment is often used for chronic back pain that has not responded to other treatments, such as medication or physical therapy. It can provide long-lasting relief from pain and improve mobility and quality of life for patients who have not found relief from other treatments.
Procedure Process
Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that is typically performed on an outpatient basis. Prior to the procedure, the patient is typically given local anesthesia to numb the area being treated. Fluoroscopy is used to guide a needle into the affected area of the spine. Once the needle is in the correct position, a small amount of electric current is passed through the needle to create a lesion on the nerves that transmit pain signals. The lesion will disrupt the nerve's ability to transmit pain signals and will provide relief. The procedure typically takes about 30-60 minutes to perform, and patients can usually go home the same day. After the procedure, patients may experience some mild discomfort or soreness, but this can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
Recovery
After the radiofrequency ablation or rhizotomy procedure, patients may experience some soreness and discomfort in the treated area for a few days. You may be advised to avoid strenuous activities for a few days and to take it easy for a week or two after the procedure. Some patients may experience temporary numbness or weakness in the treated area, but these symptoms usually resolve within a few hours. Pain relief may not be immediate but usually improves in the following days and can last several months to a year. The most common side effect of radiofrequency ablation is temporary soreness or discomfort in the treated area, which can last for a few days. Other potential side effects may include swelling, bruising, or skin irritation at the injection site, mild numbness, or tingling sensation, and muscle weakness. In rare cases, there may be an infection or bleeding at the injection site, nerve damage, or allergic reactions to the medications used during the procedure.
The medical staff at Lighthouse Spine Center will provide detailed post-procedure instructions, including pain management strategies and when it is safe to return to normal activities. It is essential to follow these instructions carefully to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.
Benefits
Radiofrequency ablation can provide long-lasting pain relief, improve mobility and function, and reduce the need for more invasive treatments. The procedure can provide relief for up to 6 to 12 months or longer in some cases. Benefits include reduced pain, increased range of motion, improved quality of life, and decreased need for pain medications. Additionally, the procedure has a low risk of complications and is performed on an outpatient basis.
Consultation and Preparation
Before undergoing a radiofrequency ablation or rhizotomy at Lighthouse Spine Center, patients will first have a consultation with our physicians. During this consultation, patients will be asked about their medical history, current medications, and allergies, and their imaging will be reviewed as well. Usually, a radiofrequency ablation procedure will be done after the pain generator is pinpointed by diagnostic medial branch blocks. Our medical staff will also provide detailed instructions on how to prepare for the procedure, which may include fasting for a certain period of time before the procedure or stopping certain medications. Patients can expect to have local anesthesia during the procedure and should arrange for someone to drive them home afterward. If you have a pacemaker or a defibrillator, please let us know, as the procedure might be contraindicated, or special preparations will need to be taken prior to the procedure.
Conclusion
At Lighthouse Spine Center, we strive to provide our patients with the highest quality care and personalized treatment options. We encourage you to book a consultation with Lighthouse Spine Center to discuss your symptoms and treatment goals to determine if radiofrequency ablation is right for you. Our goal is to help relieve your chronic pain and improve your quality of life.
