Radiofrequency ablation can be used to treat nerves as a form of the rhizotomy, or selective root destruction.
Although it sounds scary, this is a simple minimally invasive procedure that can be done at a clinic or doctor’s office. The recovery time for radiofrequency ablation depends on each patient. However, patients who have this procedure are often able to return home the same day.
What is Radiofrequency ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation works by selectively destroying tissue within the body through hyperthermia (or overheating) via a needle or probe. The needle’s tip is heated by an electric current at radio frequency. A special catheter or needle is used by doctors to guide a probe or metal tip to the ablation site. The probe then heats the target tissue.
It is important to choose the frequency because this allows for the smooth removal of dysfunctional tissue, without stimulating or interfering with nearby nerves or muscles. The body is not subject to any electric shocks or heat that could cause damage to other parts.
Radiofrequency ablation is possible without general anesthesia. It can also be used to treat arrhythmias and other heart conditions without interfering with the function of your heart.
Radiofrequency ablation can be used to destroy cancer tissue (tumors), heart tissue dysfunction, aesthetic dermatology, and pain management. It is also known as rhizotomy when it is used to treat neuropathic pain.
What is Radiofrequency Ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation can be used to manage chronic pain. However, it is not recommended if the pain is neuropathic or nerve-related. A targeted ablation can provide pain relief that lasts for a long time if the cause of pain is a dysfunctional nerve root. Radiofrequency ablation might be used in the following conditions:
Chronic lower back pain
Neck pain
Arthritis of spin
Facet joint inflammation
Sacroiliac joint inflammation
Peripheral neuropathy
Radiofrequency ablation can be used if other, less invasive treatments have failed. Potentially, patients who are candidates for radiofrequency Ablation could also be candidates to chemical nerve blocks (a similar procedure but using neurolytic agents or corticosteroids in place of heat).
Local anesthesia is one-way doctors can test for neuropathic pain that originates at the nerve root. Local anesthesia, such as lidocaine, is administered to the area around the nerve root.
If the patient experiences significant pain relief, then the nerve root can be ablated to provide longer relief. This will cut off the pain signals that travel from the spine into the brain. It is very specific and doesn’t affect any other nerve roots or motor nerves.
The doctor will quickly use the probe to temporarily destroy the nerve root. This will allow the patient to resume their normal life without pain.
Radiofrequency ablation is temporary
Radiofrequency ablation can only be used temporarily. The heat used to ablate these nerve roots is temporary. They will eventually recover their function, which could or may not results in a return to pain.
Sometimes, it is possible to reduce or improve the symptoms by ablating the nerve root and letting it heal. Sometimes, it can help patients have enough time to look for other options to decrease the chance of suffering from pain again.
The patient and the nerve will determine the time it takes for the nerve to regain its function. Most functions are regained in three to fifteen months.
Time to recover from radiofrequency ablation
Radiofrequency ablation patients are typically kept under observation from the time they have completed treatment until their condition is stabilized. Until you are cleared to leave, a nurse will monitor your vital signs and blood pressure.
Your doctor will discuss any side effects or discomfort you may experience. If you experience severe swelling, pain, redness, or bleeding at the injection site, call your doctor immediately.
A timeline will be provided to allow you to resume your normal activities. It is recommended that you refrain from strenuous activities for at least two weeks following radiofrequency ablation. This is the amount of time it takes for discomfort to subside. You will be advised to:
For 24 hours, avoid driving or operating machinery. Call a taxi or have someone pick you up.
Shower, but do not soak in a tub for more than one to two days.
The next day, remove any bandages.
No restrictions are placed on your diet. You will be asked not to eat the day before the procedure but you can resume normal eating after your discharge.
To ease pain at the injection site, your doctor may prescribe over-the-counter painkillers. You should not apply heat or ice to the injection site.
This article was written by a medical professional at Florida Medical Pain Management. Florida Medical Pain Management is proud to offer St Pete Pain Management to a diverse group of patients. Patients at Florida Medical Pain Management can get help managing hip, knee, leg, and neck pain. The practice also offers comprehensive arthritis management, along with treatments for auto accidents, sports, and work injuries.