Life without pain
What is radiofrequency ablation (RFA)?
Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic pain. It uses radiofrequency energy to disable the sensory nerves that carry pain. In that way, by deactivating the nerves that cause pain, long-lasting relief can be achieved.
Am I a candidate for this procedure?
If you have chronic pain, only your doctor can assess whether RFA is the right treatment for you. Before the procedure, your doctor may perform diagnostic nerve blocks to see whether you would benefit from RFA therapy.
What does the procedure look like?
Radiofrequency ablation is performed by a pain therapy specialist on an outpatient basis—in a hospital, surgical center or doctor’s office.
After applying local anesthesia to the target area, the doctor uses ultrasound or X-ray guidance to precisely advance a thin, insulated needle to the painful site.
A stimulation test is then carried out to confirm that the needle is in the correct position. Once confirmed, the actual treatment begins.
During the procedure, the RF generator sends controlled radiofrequency current through the needle, interrupting the transmission of pain signals from a specific nerve to the brain. In some cases, several nerve branches must be treated to achieve the best effect.
How long does the procedure take?
Usually between 20 and 45 minutes.
Is the procedure painful?
Unlike surgery, there is no incision. Before starting, the doctor applies local anesthesia to minimize discomfort.
How long does pain relief last?
Radiofrequency ablation can provide relief that allows you to return to everyday activities. The effect most often lasts from 10 to 24 months.
Over time, the body may regenerate the nerves that carry pain, and the procedure can then be safely repeated.
When can I go home after the procedure?
Because it is an outpatient, minimally invasive treatment without general anesthesia, you can go home very soon after the procedure. It is recommended that someone drive you home.
What should I do after the procedure?
You may feel mild pain or tenderness at the treatment site for several days. The doctor may recommend cold compresses or mild analgesics.
Pain relief is usually felt within 1–2 weeks.
During the first week, avoid prolonged sitting and driving.
Which parts of the body can be treated with RFA systems:
Lumbar spine
Cervical (neck) spine
Knee
Thoracic spine
Hip and greater trochanter
Shoulder
Are there risks associated with radiofrequency ablation?
As with any medical procedure, there are certain risks, although they are rare. For additional information about this procedure, including contraindications and possible complications, consult your doctor.
Contraindications
Patients with a pacemaker (consultation with the pacemaker manufacturer required).
Physiological monitoring devices and other electrical equipment incompatible with the procedure that is currently in use by the patient.
Neurostimulation devices (spinal, brain or other stimulators) (consultation with the manufacturer required).
Previous neurological deficits.
General anesthesia.
Infection (local or systemic).
Coagulation disorders or use of anticoagulants.
