Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency ablation

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure designed to reduce or eliminate pain through the application of heat. In this procedure, an electrical current is used to burn problematic nerves, preventing them from sending pain signals. RFA may be used in patients suffering from chronic pain in any part of the body.

Candidates for RFA

Conditions causing inflammation, specifically in facet and sacroiliac joints, can be treated with RFA. Patients who have achieved successful pain relief after a diagnostic nerve block injection may be good candidates for this procedure. Patients suffering from pelvic pain or certain neck and back conditions may also find relief after radiofrequency ablation. RFA can also successfully treat shoulder and knee pain, occipital neuralgia, and certain types of headaches.

Procedure

The procedure can be done with or without sedation. The procedure will take 30 minues and up to 90 minutes.

Procedure

The patient lies on their stomach and the doctor may give them some sedation before the procedure begins. The doctor will numb the site and use an X-Ray to guide the RFA needle to the affected nerves. The doctor will try to recreate the pain to make sure the needle is in the right place. After confirming, a heat lesion is applied to the nerve to prevent it from sending pain signals to the brain.
After the Procedure

This is an outpatient procedure. That means the patient typically goes home the same day. We ask our patients not to drive and to rest for 24 hours after a Radiofrequency Ablation. You could be sore after the procedure, but most people return to normal activities after 24 hours. Sometimes an RFA will provide 6 to 12 months of relief. For other patients, it can last for years.

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