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Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat generated by radiofrequency energy to destroy nerve fibers responsible for chronic pain. During the procedure, a thin probe is inserted into the targeted area, and an electrical current heats the surrounding tissue, causing localized destruction of the nerves that communicate pain to the brain.
This technique is commonly used to treat chronic pain conditions like arthritis and lower back pain.
Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation

What Is Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) of Medial Branch Nerves?

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) works by delivering heat energy to targeted tissues through a specialized probe. The procedure begins with the insertion of a thin, needle-like probe into the affected area. Once positioned correctly, the probe emits high-frequency electrical currents, which generate heat and destroy the sensory nerves that innervate the joints of the spine (medial branch nerves of the facet joints). This controlled destruction helps stop pain signals from the nerves to the brain. One of the major advantages of RFA is its minimally invasive nature, leading to shorter recovery times and reduced risks compared to traditional surgery. It provides an effective, long-term solution for patients seeking pain relief without relying on medication.

What Conditions Can Be Treated with RFA?

RFA can be used to treat various conditions associated with chronic pain, including:

  • Facet Joint Pain: Persistent neck, mid-back, or lower back pain caused by arthritis or degeneration of the spine's facet joints.
  • Spinal Osteoarthritis (Spondylosis): Progressive deterioration of the spine resulting in persistent pain.
  • Neuropathic Pain: Pain resulting from irritated or damaged nerves in targeted, localized regions.
  • Sacroiliac Joint Pain: Pain originating from the sacroiliac joints, which link the spine to the pelvis.
  • Chronic Back Pain: Chronic lower back pain caused by conditions such as degenerative disc disease.
RFA is typically suggested when conservative treatments like medications or physical therapy fail to offer adequate relief.
Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation

Benefits of RFA for Medial Branch Nerves

Here are some key benefits of Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA):

Reduced Dependence on Medications

RFA minimizes the need for pain-relief medications by directly addressing the source of pain.

Minimally Invasive

This procedure is done on an outpatient basis, eliminating the need for hospitalization.

Long-Lasting Pain Relief

RFA offers pain relief that can last between 6 months and 2 years, depending on individual factors.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Preparation: Before the Procedure

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Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Medical Evaluation
Your doctor will perform a comprehensive history and physical exam, which may include imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs, to confirm the diagnosis and plan the procedure.
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Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Medications
Inform your physician about any medications or supplements you are taking, as certain medications, like blood thinners, may need to be paused before the procedure.
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Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Fasting
As you will be lying face down for the procedure we recommend that you refrain from eating for several hours beforehand.
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Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Clothing & Transportation
Wear loose, comfortable clothing and arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.
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Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Consent & Instructions
You will review and sign a consent form and receive detailed guidance on what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.

During the procedure

The procedure usually lasts 20-25 minutes, depending on the number of joints being treated.
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Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Sterile Preparation

The area for injection will be thoroughly cleaned with antiseptic solution to prepare a sterile field for the procedure. The physician will wear sterile gloves for the duration of the procedure.

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Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Anesthesia

Local anesthesia such as Lidocaine will be injected to numb the area (similar to the numbing you would receive at the dentist) to ensure comfort during the procedure.

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Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Positioning

You will lie on your stomach on a specially designed table, allowing the doctor easy access to your spine.

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Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Guided Injection

Using fluoroscopic (real-time X-ray) guidance, the doctor carefully positions a thin needle targeting the medial branch nerve.

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Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Sensory and Motor testing
Small electrical impulses will be delivered to ensure accurate and safe location of needle placement
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Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Injection
A small amount of numbing medication will be injected
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Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Lesion Formation
Radiofrequency energy will be generated through the needle. The generated heat creates a lesion on the nerve, blocking its ability to transmit pain signals.
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Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Post burn injection
A mixture of numbing medication and steroid will be delivered to help prevent an local area irritation after injection
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Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Bandage
After the injection is complete, the area is cleaned, and a bandage is applied to protect the site.

After the Procedure: Post-Care

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Monitoring
You will rest in a recovery area while your vital signs are monitored for about 15 minutes.
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Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Pain Relief
Many patients experience immediate or significant pain relief, though many also do not feel the full benefits until 2 weeks. Mild discomfort at the injection site is normal and should subside within a few days.
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Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Activity Restrictions
Avoid heavy lifting, bending, or strenuous activities for the first week. However, light walking and routine daily activities are encouraged to aid recovery.
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Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation
Follow-Up
A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to review the results of the injection and discuss the next steps for long-term pain relief.

Risks and Side Effects

Although RFA is generally safe, potential risks and side effects may include temporary numbness or weakness, mild swelling or bruising at the injection site, and, in rare cases, complications such as infection, allergic reactions, or nerve damage.
Your doctor will review these risks with you and determine whether you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
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