Radiofrequency Neurotomy Procedure
Overview
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA), also called radiofrequency neurotomy, is a treatment that uses heat from radio waves to affect certain nerves. This technique helps block the nerves from sending pain signals to the brain for a limited period.
A doctor uses imaging guidance to place special needles through the skin near the nerves that cause pain. Common areas treated include:
- Back
- Neck
- Buttocks
- Shoulder, knee, or hip joints
Key Points:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Heat Application | Radio waves create heat at the nerve site. |
| Targeting | Needles are directed to specific nerves. |
| Pain Relief | Reduces pain by disrupting nerve signals. |
Reasons for This Procedure
Doctors perform radiofrequency neurotomy to help people who have ongoing pain in areas like the back, neck, hips, or knees that has not gotten better with medicine or physical therapy. It can be a choice when surgery is not possible or not preferred.
This method often helps when pain links to the facet joints, especially if pain spreads to the buttocks or thighs. Some signs that suggest a patient might benefit include pain during twisting or lifting, but relief when lying down. It is also an option for neck pain related to injuries, such as whiplash.
Common Pain Locations
| Area | Related Joint |
|---|---|
| Lower Back | Facet Joints |
| Neck | Facet Joints |
| Hips/Knees | N/A |
Possible Dangers
Most people feel numbness or mild pain in the area right after the procedure. In rare cases, patients may experience bleeding, infection, or damage to nearby nerves, which could lead to weakness.
How You Get Ready
Before the procedure, a doctor will likely check if radiofrequency ablation is the right choice. Doctors often use a test injection of numbing medication in the area where pain is felt. If the pain gets better after this test, the treatment may work for you.
Patients may be told to stop eating several hours before the procedure. Only clear liquids might be allowed until a couple of hours before. Medicine instructions, including which ones to take or skip, are usually given in advance. Rest and staying hydrated the day before are also important.
What You Can Expect
Patients should let their healthcare provider know if they use blood-thinning medications. These may need to be paused before treatment. Arrangements for a ride home after the procedure are important. A few key steps to follow include:
- Take only necessary medicines with clear liquids, as early in the day as possible.
- Avoid taking medications within two hours before the appointment.
- Refrain from using tobacco products on the day of the procedure.
What Happens During the Treatment
Medical staff perform radiofrequency neurotomy at an outpatient facility, so patients do not stay overnight. Patients put on a hospital gown and lie on a table equipped with X-ray technology. Staff insert an intravenous (IV) line in the arm or hand to deliver medication for comfort.
A numbing agent is applied before radiofrequency needles are placed. A fluoroscopy machine—an advanced type of X-ray—finds the correct area and helps guide the needles precisely to the target nerve tissue.
The team ensures only the intended nerves receive treatment.
Table: Main Equipment Used
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| X-ray table | Patient positioning and imaging |
| Fluoroscopy unit | Real-time needle guidance |
| IV line | Medication delivery |
Steps After the Treatment
After the procedure, staff move patients to a recovery area to rest. Mild soreness may occur where the needles entered, but this should go away within a couple of days. At home, comfort can be managed by:
- Using an ice pack on the entry sites for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day on the first day.
- Avoiding heating pads on the treated areas.
- Waiting two days before taking a bath, though showers are allowed after 24 hours.
These post-care steps help support healing and reduce discomfort.
Findings
Radiofrequency neurotomy can provide temporary pain relief for some people dealing with back or neck pain. Success rates vary. Some individuals report mild, short-term improvement, while others experience relief for several months.
In some cases, the procedure does not ease pain or enhance daily activities. Pain management depends on accurately targeting the nerves causing the discomfort, so careful assessment is important.
