Radiofrequency Ablation

What conditions does radiofrequency ablation treat?

RFA is used to treat a variety of long-term conditions including:

• Arthritis of the spine

• SI joint pain

• Pain in the neck, back, and knee

• Peripheral nerve pain

Who is a candidate for radiofrequency ablation?

Patients who haven't found relief from other treatments like physical therapy or pain medications may benefit from RFA. Often, if a patient experiences pain relief following a nerve block injection, a procedure where a local anesthetic is injected near a nerve to temporarily block the pain signals, it may indicate they are a good candidate for RFA.

What happens during the procedure?

Patients who haven't found relief from other treatments like physical therapy or pain medications may benefit from RFA. Often, if a patient experiences pain relief following a nerve block injection, a procedure where a local anesthetic is injected near a nerve to temporarily block the pain signals, it may indicate they are a good candidate for RFA.

Before the procedure begins, your doctor administers a local anesthetic to the area to numb the targeted region, and our team will closely monitor your heart rate and blood pressure from the beginning to end of the procedure.

RFA is performed under X-ray guidance, a technique that uses X-rays to guide the placement of the needle to locate the pain-causing nerve precisely. A small needle is carefully inserted into the targeted nerve, and an electrode located at the tip of the needle delivers controlled radio waves, generating heat that forms a lesion on the nerve.

This lesion disrupts the nerve's ability to transmit pain signals to the brain, offering relief. Surrounding healthy nerves remain unaffected. By the end of the procedure, you may experience immediate pain relief, with the full benefits typically felt within a few days to weeks as the nerve heals.

How long does the RFA procedure take?

The procedure takes about 30 minutes, depending on the area being treated.

What are the side effects of radiofrequency ablation?

Side effects from RFA are typically mild and temporary. Redness, pain, and bruising at the treatment site can occur and may last several days to a week.

How soon can I return to normal activities after RFA treatment?

After radiofrequency ablation treatment, most patients can return to normal activities relatively quickly. However, the timeline can vary depending on individual factors and the area in which the patient is treated.

Immediately after the procedure, patients may feel discomfort or soreness at the treatment site due to the needle insertion, which usually improves within a few days. Most patients can resume normal activities after resting for 24-48 hours. They will experience significant pain relief within 1 to 3 weeks.

Note: Following your doctor's instructions for post-procedure care is essential to have the best outcome and avoid complications.

Is the RFA procedure painful?

Radiofrequency ablation is generally well-tolerated, with most patients reporting that they felt minimal pain while undergoing the procedure. Patients may feel a prick from the needle or slight pressure at the beginning, and a slight burning or tingling sensation during the procedure.

If you’re concerned about pain associated with RFA, it’s important to talk to your doctor. They can help to alleviate anxiety and pain management options to make you feel more comfortable during the procedure.

How long does the effect last?

The effect of the procedure is expected to last 6 months or more, depending on your age.

How often can I have radiofrequency ablation?

The frequency of RFA depends on how well you respond to the treatment and the specific area being treated. In general, RFA can be repeated every 6 to 12 months if the pain returns after the effects of the procedure wear off.

Your doctor can evaluate how well you’re managing after each treatment and determine whether additional sessions are needed.