Radiofrequency Ablation
Diagnosis & Understanding
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Minimally Invasive & Surgical Treatments
3. Endoscopic Rhizotomy
1:41
Alternative & Emerging Therapies
1. Regenerative Medicine
2:06
Robert Moghim MD
Anchor Healthcare
Radiofrequency Ablation (Spine) - Pre/Post Procedure
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Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) of the Spine is a minimally invasive procedure that uses controlled heat energy to target and deactivate specific nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals. By interrupting these signals, RFA can provide long-lasting relief for individuals suffering from chronic back or neck pain, particularly due to facet joint arthritis or other degenerative spinal conditions. Here’s what you need to know about preparing for and recovering from this procedure. If sedation is required, follow standard NPO (nothing by mouth) guidelines: - No solid foods for 8 hours before the procedure. - No liquids for 2 hours before the procedure. Unlike other procedures, blood thinners typically do not need to be stopped, but confirm this with your provider. Wear loose, comfortable clothing, and arrange for someone to drive you home if sedation is used. After the procedure, mild soreness is normal—use ice packs and take medications as needed for comfort. Some patients may experience a temporary increase in pain before improvement, which is a normal part of the healing process. Avoid strenuous activities for 48 hours to allow the treated area to settle. There are no incisions with this procedure, so wound care is not necessary. A follow-up evaluation is recommended in 2 to 4 weeks to assess your response to treatment. While RFA can provide significant relief, nerves may regenerate within 6 months, meaning the procedure may need to be repeated up to twice per year for continued pain control. RFA offers an effective, minimally invasive option for long-term pain relief. Following these guidelines will help you recover smoothly and maximize the benefits of treatment. If you have any concerns, contact the medical team.
FAQs
Are there any risks or considerations associated with Radiofrequency Ablation?
RFA is considered a safe and effective minimally invasive option for long-term pain relief with no incision involved, minimizing the risk of infection. However, as with any medical procedure, discuss all potential risks and concerns with your medical team to ensure it is the right option for you. If any concerns arise, do not hesitate to contact your healthcare provider for guidance.
How should I prepare for a Radiofrequency Ablation procedure?
If sedation is required for the procedure, you should follow standard NPO (nothing by mouth) guidelines: avoid solid foods for 8 hours and liquids for 2 hours before the procedure. Unlike other procedures, blood thinners typically do not need to be stopped, but you should confirm this with your healthcare provider. Additionally, wear loose, comfortable clothing, and arrange for someone to drive you home if sedation is used.
How soon will I experience pain relief after Radiofrequency Ablation, and how long does it last?
While immediate pain relief is possible, some patients may experience a temporary increase in pain before improvement. A follow-up evaluation is recommended in 2-4 weeks to assess your response to treatment. Relief from RFA can be significant and long-lasting, but nerves may regenerate within 6 months, which may necessitate repeating the procedure up to twice per year for sustained pain control.
What is Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) of the Spine, and how does it work?
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) of the Spine is a minimally invasive procedure that uses controlled heat energy to target and deactivate specific nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals. By interrupting these signals, RFA can provide long-lasting relief for individuals suffering from chronic back or neck pain, particularly due to facet joint arthritis or other degenerative spinal conditions.
What should I expect during recovery after Radiofrequency Ablation?
After the procedure, it's normal to experience mild soreness. To manage discomfort, use ice packs and take any prescribed medications. Some patients may experience a temporary increase in pain before noticing improvement, which is a normal part of the healing process. Avoid strenuous activities for 48 hours to allow the treated area to settle, although no incision care is necessary since RFA does not involve incisions.