Radiofrequency Ablation
Diagnosis & Understanding
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Minimally Invasive & Surgical Treatments
3. Endoscopic Rhizotomy
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Alternative & Emerging Therapies
1. Regenerative Medicine
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Robert Moghim MD
Anchor Healthcare
SI Joint Radiofrequency Ablation
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Sacroiliac joint radiofrequency ablation (SI Joint RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure designed to relieve chronic pain in the sacroiliac joint, where the spine meets the pelvis. When this joint becomes irritated, it can cause pain in the lower back, buttocks, or thighs. If a previous injection provided temporary relief but the pain returned, SI Joint RFA may be a good option.
During the procedure, you’ll lie on your stomach while a thin needle is guided by X-ray or ultrasound to the nerves around the sacroiliac joint. Radio waves generate heat, disrupting the nerves’ ability to send pain signals to the brain. This process, sometimes called "burning" the nerves, can provide long-lasting relief.
SI Joint RFA is typically considered when physical therapy or medications haven’t worked. Risks are low, but some may experience temporary soreness, bruising, or, in rare cases, nerve damage or infection. Pain relief can take two to six weeks to develop and may last six months to two years. Most people report significant improvement during this time.
Alternatives to SI Joint RFA include physical therapy, pain medications, additional injections, or other procedures like sacroiliac joint fusion in severe cases. The best approach depends on your specific condition and response to previous treatments.
After the procedure, avoid strenuous activities for a few days and use ice packs if needed for discomfort. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
FAQs
How does the SI Joint RFA procedure work?
During the procedure, a thin needle is inserted with the guidance of X-ray or ultrasound to target the nerves around the sacroiliac joint. The radiofrequency energy heats these nerves, effectively "burning" them to stop pain transmission. The procedure typically offers pain relief that can last from six months to two years.
What are the risks associated with SI Joint RFA?
The risks associated with SI Joint RFA are generally low, but they can include temporary soreness, bruising, and, in rare cases, nerve damage or infection. Most people experience significant improvement with minimal complications.
What can patients expect during recovery from SI Joint RFA?
After the procedure, patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities for a few days. Soreness is common for the first couple of weeks, with pain relief developing over two to six weeks. Applying ice packs can help manage any discomfort, and pain relief generally lasts from six months to two years.
What is sacroiliac joint radiofrequency ablation (SI Joint RFA)?
Sacroiliac joint radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic pain in the sacroiliac joint, the connection between the spine and pelvis. The procedure uses radio waves to heat and disrupt nerves around the joint, preventing them from sending pain signals to the brain.
When is SI Joint RFA considered as a treatment option?
SI Joint RFA is usually considered for patients who experience chronic sacroiliac joint pain that has not improved with physical therapy or medications, especially if previous joint injections provided only temporary relief. It is an option for those looking for long-term pain management.