Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure performed by Global Pain Solutions to reduce low-back pain, neck pain, and pain caused by the degeneration of joints from arthritis.

How Radiofrequency Ablation Works

Radiofrequency ablation uses an electrical current generated by a radio wave to heat a small area of nerve tissue, creating a lesion that decreases pain signals from that specific area. The procedure is usually done with local anesthetic and mild sedation and typically takes about 30 minutes. If you need help with pain management, you can contact at 602-610-7299 or book an appointment online.

Benefits of Radiofrequency Ablation

  • Provides longer-lasting pain relief compared to steroid injections
  • Reduces or relieves pain
  • Improves range of motion
  • Has a short recovery time
  • Reduces the need for pain medication
  • Targets nerves in the spinal column that send pain signals to the brain
  • Creates a semi-permanent disruption of pain signals
  • Decreases pain from severe knee arthritis, often avoiding the need for knee replacement
  • Pain relief typically lasts from 6 to 12 months, with some patients experiencing relief for up to 2 years

The Radiofrequency Ablation Procedure

Intravenous sedation is commonly recommended, and the patient is monitored by an anesthesiologist or certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA). The skin around the injection site is cleaned and numbed with local anesthetic. Using fluoroscopy (live X-ray), a needle is inserted to the targeted nerve. An electrical current is sent through the needle to confirm proper placement. Pulsed radiofrequency ablation is then performed by applying high-voltage current at specific intervals and temperatures, creating a lesion that disrupts the nerve’s ability to send pain signals. Anesthetics and steroids may be injected post-procedure to reduce pain.

Radiofrequency Ablation for the Knee

For knee pain, small needles are inserted around the knee capsule near the genicular nerves. These nerves are ablated to reduce pain from moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis. The procedure requires no incisions and offers minimal recovery time.

Radiofrequency Ablation for Neck and Back

In the neck and back, the needle targets the medial branch nerve that services the facet joint. Sensory and motor stimulation confirm correct needle placement before performing thermal radiofrequency ablation to cauterize the nerve. Post-procedure medications may include local anesthetic and steroids to aid pain relief.

Conditions Treated with Radiofrequency Ablation

  • Lumbar degenerative disc disease
  • Neck and back pain related to arthritis
  • General arthritis pain
  • Chronic lower back pain
  • Facet joint pain and arthritis/arthropathy
  • Spondylosis
  • Chronic neck pain
  • Cervical degenerative disc disease
  • Knee osteoarthritis (OA) and degeneration
  • Neuropathy
  • Postherpetic neuralgia
  • Sacroiliac joint pain
Radiofrequency ablation is a proven and effective treatment option for chronic pain, offering significant and extended relief by targeting nerves that transmit pain signals