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Radiofrequency Nerve Ablation

(Also known as Radiofrequency Rhizotomy or Radiofrequency Lesioning)

Nerve is heated to block communication with the brain

Radiofrequency nerve ablation (also known as radiofrequency lesioning, or neurotomy) is an emerging therapy in pain medicine that uses a specialized device to disrupt nerve conduction on a semi-permanent basis. With radiofrequency treatment, the nerves are usually blocked for 6-9 months, but relief can be as short as 3 months or as long at 18 months for some patients. This nerve ablation pain relief technique can be used successfully for those with back pain, neck pain, muscle pain, or other discomforts. A probe is inserted through a needle and controlled delivery of heat is placed along a painful nerve. Radiofrequency causes nerve destruction through heat.

Radiofrequency nerve ablation has been in use for many years and the technique continues to improve with better efficacy and fewer risks. Patients can experience significant pain relief with this minimally invasive procedure that does not require a long hospital stay.

Nerve ablation of facet joints is performed in an operative setting using mild sedation and local anesthetics. Fluoroscopic x-ray guidance allows the physician to accurately position the radiofrequency ablation probe adjacent to the medial branch nerves to be treated. The nerve is then heated to 80 degrees C using a radiofrequency generator.

Radiofrequency ablation treatment is a safe and well-tolerated method selected to treat chronic pain caused by a variety of conditions. If your pain responds well to an initial treatment, a follow-up treatment may be helpful.

Conditions commonly treated with radiofrequency nerve ablation include the following:

  • Spinal arthritis
  • Spinal stenosis
  • Facet arthritis
  • Whiplash
  • Sprains & strains
I was relieved of pain immediately after the surgery. It's truly amazing; I did not think I would be able to feel this way this quick.
(Play Video | More Testimonials)
- David Wallace

What Are the Risks of Radiofrequency Ablation?

As with any medical procedure, there are risks and potential complications associated with radiofrequency ablation. These include bleeding, infections, worsening of pain symptoms, discomfort at the point of injection, and motor nerve damage (rare).

Potential side effects of radiofrequency nerve ablation include:

  • Rare, but possible, allergic reaction to local anesthetic
  • Bleeding and bruising; the effects are minimal and should disappear within days.
  • Infections, though unlikely
  • Post procedure soreness, extremely variable and dissipates within a few days