Radiofrequency Ablation

What is Radiofrequency Ablation?

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA or rhizotomy) is a procedure used to reduce pain. An electrical current is produced by a radio wave and used to heat up a small area of nerve tissue, thereby decreasing pain signals from that specific area. Relief varies, depending on the causes and the location of the pain. It is possible that pain relief from RFA can last from six and up to twelve months. Some patients experience relief for years. Over 70% of patients who have RFA experience some kind of pain relief.

RFA can be used to help patients with chronic lower-back and neck pain, and pain related to the degeneration of joints from arthritis. The radio frequency waves are often directed at the nerves to the facet joints of the spine. These joints are located on either side of the vertebra. In order to identify the nerves that are to be treated, a local anesthetic, such as lidocaine, may be injected to see what nerve is producing the pain signals. If the anesthetic produces temporary relief, that nerve may benefit from RFA. Patients who have had temporary relief after epidural and facet joint injections may experience longer lasting relief with RFA.

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