What is Radiofrequency?
Radiofrequency lesioning of nerves is a safe procedure that may be used to reduce back or neck pain by preventing the transmission of pain signals. The radio-frequency current heats up a small section of the nerve therapy producing a long lasting interruption in pain signal, thereby decreasing the perception of pain.
What to expect with Radiofrequency
One or more diagnostic blocks are usually done with confirmation that a chosen or designated nerve is responsible for the transmission of pain, prior to the radiofrequency ablation. The procedure us usually done under light sedation and anxiolytics, and with fluoroscopic guidance to guide the placement of the procedure needles and electrodes. Once the needle placement I determined to be appropriate, through stimulation, a small radiofrequency current will travel through the electrode to the surrounding tissues causing heat to the nerves and decreasing the transmission of pain. The pain relief from radiofrequency typically lasts 3-12 months, and therefore may need to be repeated, most patients report more long lasting pain relief than local anesthetics and steroids: Most patients can return to their normal activities soon after the procedure.