Radiofrequency Neurotomy
Relieve Pain and Achieve your Optimal Quality of Life
Radiofrequency Neurotomy is an injection that uses a specialised machine that generates radiofrequency current. The current is then passed through a special needle placed next to the nerve (medial branch) which carries pain from the facet joints to the spinal cord.
The current generates heat which interrupts transmission of pain. Radiofrequency neurotomy is preformed after the patient has benefitted from a diagnostic medial branch nerve blocks.
Treatment Summary at a glance
| Side Effects: | Minor pain at injection site |
|---|---|
| Results: | Pain free joints |
| Duration of Results: | Between a few months and a lifetime |
| Back to Work: | Within two days |
| Full Recovery: | Within two weeks |
How does Radiofrequency Neurotomy work?
The procedure is performed under x-ray with the patient lying on his/her stomach. The skin is cleansed with an antiseptic solution and then anesthetized with a numbing medication. After the skin is numb, needles are places near the target nerve under x-ray guidance. The nerve will then be numbed prior to starting the radiofrequency neurotomy.
It is typical for 3 nerves to be targeted, so there are usually 3 injections performed during this procedure.
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FAQ
Am I suitable for Radiofrequency Neurotomy?
At consultation, your Consultant will be able to tell you if you are suitable. We may need an MRI or x-ray to confirm next steps.
Does Radiofrequency Neurotomy hurt?
The procedure is relatively pain free. There is some discomfort with needle insertion which we minimise by numbing the skin over the joint with a local anaesthetic. If you’re in any pain post-procedure, you will be discharged with pain relief.
How long does Radiofrequency Neurotomy take?
Regenerative cell therapy takes between 1-2 hours. Pain reliving injections take no more than 20 minutes per joint.
Is there any downtime/recovery time following Radiofrequency Neurotomy?
All procedures are carried out under local anaesthetic so within one and three hours of your procedure, patients are typically discharged. All patients should have a chaperone (friend, family member or carer) to collect them after their procedure and remain with them on their journey home.
You are likely to feel mild pain in the joint for two to three days, however the pain can be managed with regular strength painkillers.
Post procedure, you should refrain from strenuous activity for at least two weeks.
What kind of results can I expect from Radiofrequency Neurotomy?
Patients can feel immediate pain-relief. If this is not the case, do not worry, effects may take some days to come through and research has found it could take between 3-5 days.
What is the next step after Radiofrequency Neurotomy?
You will be given a follow up appointment to discuss how effective the treatment was. If it was not successful other treatment options will be discussed.
How do we diagnose at Dr SW Clinics Radiofrequency Neurotomy?
Depending on the joint issue you present with, there may be a couple of ways to diagnose your pain and thereby find you a lasting solution.
Firstly, you will have a telephone consultation with one of our highly trained patient advisors. This patient advisor will ask you a series of pre-assessment questions to better understand your personal needs.
You will then be invited for a consultation with one of our leading experts. To better gain an understanding of the problem, the Consultant may suggest you receive an x-ray or an MRI.
What is an x-ray?
A diagnostic test that can help identify what issues are causing the pain.
What is an MRI?
A diagnostic test using a magnetic field and radio waves for a detailed image of both joint and soft tissue.
What is an ultrasound?
Typically a handheld device that provides an on the spot image of the soft tissue.
Once we’ve received the results of your diagnostic tests, our team will be able to advise you on next best steps to get you pain free.
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