What is a
Radiofrequency Ablation?
PROCEDURE LENGTH
10 - 25 minutes
INCISION SIZE
No incision
NO HOSPITAL STAY
Outpatient procedure
What is a radiofrequency ablation?
What is a radiofrequency ablation?
[MUSIC PLAYING] A radiofrequency ablation or RFA for short, is a minimally invasive procedure performed at the BioSpine Institute that is used to relieve pain associated with conditions such as degenerative disk disease, thinning disks, and spondylolisthesis to name a few. The procedure is designed to, in essence, eliminate the problem nerve at least temporarily. It does this by ablating the nerve or essentially heating the nerve with an extremely high frequency radio wave. During the procedure, the physician uses a special X-ray to guide a small needle to the precise area of the spine thus causing pain. Then a microelectrode is inserted through that needle which stimulates the nerve with enough heat to render it useless, which in this case is a good thing because of all the pain the nerve was causing. Now, it's important to realize that nerves are resilient and they do regenerate over time. But the relief can last anywhere from six months to over a year. The goal is to eliminate the pain long enough so that the patient can be freed up to pursue physical therapy or core strength training, which can provide more long term or even permanent relief. If you would like to learn more about the RFA procedure or any other treatments we offer here at the BioSpine Institute, be sure to check out our website at biospine.com. [MUSIC PLAYING]
During a radiofrequency ablation procedure, the physician inserts a small needle into the general area where the pain is present. A fluoroscope (x-ray) helps the physician guide the needle to the target area. A microelectrode is then inserted through the needle to stimulate the nerve, and a small radiofrequency current heats the tissue to relieve the pain.
How Long Does Pain Relief From RFA Last?
How Long Does Pain Relief From RFA Last?
The degree of pain relief varies and in most cases we see relief lasting from 6 to 12 months. In some cases, pain relief can last for years.
Used To Treat These Conditions
The soft cushion-like discs between vertebrae begin to deteriorate and the outer wall becomes brittle and weak.
When a bone in the spine slips forward and out of place, it’s known as spondylolisthesis.
Lumbar and Cervical Sprain/Strain (Whiplash)
How Will I Feel After Surgery?
How Will I Feel After Surgery?
The majority of patients will notice immediate improvement of some or all of their symptoms while other symptoms may improve more gradually. A positive attitude and following your doctor’s post-surgery instructions will contribute to a satisfactory outcome. Most patients return to their regular activities within a few weeks.
*The Radiofrequency Ablation procedure is recognized by the American Medical Association.
