What is radiofrequency ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive, nonsurgical procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to disrupt the transmission of pain signals from nerves. The radiofrequency energy heats up targeted areas of nerve tissue, disrupting them and prevents them from sending pain signals.
Why would I need radiofrequency ablation?
As a fellowship-trained interventional pain management specialist, Dr. Waltrous offers radiofrequency ablation for lasting relief of chronic pain, especially in the lower back, neck, and arthritic joints.
He may recommend RFA as part of your individualized treatment plan if you have one arthritis of the spine that causes you chronic pain that interferes with your lifestyle.
RFA may provide longer-term pain relief than nerve blocks, lasting six to 12 months in many cases. This treatment may be right for you if other therapies, such as pain medications, don’t provide adequate relief.
What should I expect from radiofrequency ablation treatment?
First, Dr. Waltrous carefully reviews your medical history and performs a physical exam, in addition to any available imaging, to make sure you’re a good candidate for radiofrequency ablation. He will perform a series of diagnostic nerve blocks to identify the nerves responsible for your pain.
During RFA treatment, you lie on an X-ray table. Dr. Waltrous injects local anesthetic into your skin and deeper soft tissues to help improve your comfort during the procedure. Next, he inserts a fine needle through your numbed tissues and to the area of the nerves that are causing you pain. He uses a special X-ray called a fluoroscope to pinpoint the precise area for treatment.
Then, Dr. Waltrous inserts a microelectrode through the needle. The electrode delivers a controlled radiofrequency current that heats your nerve tissue, disabling its ability to transmit pain signals. RFA generally takes less than an hour and you should be able to go home within an hour after the procedure. You should arrange to have someone else drive you to and from the site of the procedure.
Most patients find RFA extremely effective at providing long-term pain relief. It’s common to experience relief for six to 12 months, but the effects of RFA can last for years in some patients.
To learn more about radiofrequency ablation, call Maryland Sports, Spine and Musculoskeletal Institute or requesting an appointment online today.