If you have tried to manage your pain with conservative treatments without success, radiofrequency ablation may be what you need. It is a less invasive procedure that uses heat that destroys nerve fibers that carry pain signals, therefore stopping the pain transmission. It can be used to relieve chronic pain in the neck, lower back, and arthritic joints.
If you live in or around Austin, radiofrequency ablation is offered at Republic Spine & Pain by board-certified pain management physicians. With a specialization in interventional pain management, these specialists can help you through this procedure effectively.
How to Know if You are a Right Candidate for Radiofrequency Ablation
The best way to know if the minimally invasive treatment is right for you is by talking to the physician about it. However, it can be recommended to you if you have chronic pain and may have tried other alternatives such as medication and physical therapy. At Republic Spine & Pain, the specialists determine if you are the right candidate for this treatment through a consultation.
How to prepare for radiofrequency ablation
You can receive special instructions from your provider on how you should prepare before the procedure. It can include the use of medications to prevent excessive bleeding, and you can also be asked to make arrangements on your transportation and be accompanied by someone on your appointment day.
How Radiofrequency is Carried Out
Before the procedure, intravenous medication is given to relax you. While you lay on an x-ray table, your provider nubs your skin with a local anaesthetic followed by these procedures:
A thin needle is inserted in the area you are experiencing pain. The exact area can be identified through an x-ray.
A microelectrode is inserted through the needle where the doctor may ask you about feeling a tingling sensation as it can help in identifying the right area for treatment.
A small frequency is then sent through the electrode to heat your nerve tissue, and as a result, pain transmission is disrupted.
What to Expect After the Treatment
Most patients recover to the extent of walking immediately but are closely monitored for a short time before being taken home. It’s good to note that you must be taken home by someone who accompanied you to your appointment.
A follow-up session is always important to address any rising concerns and also note down the treatment’s efficacy. Where there is a need, the procedure can be repeated.
Risks Associated with Radiofrequency Ablation
The probability of complications from the procedure is very low, and serious complications are uncommon. However, you may experience some temporary side effects such as weaknesses and numbness in your legs, swelling, and bruising. However, these effects can be managed through resting, ice packs, or medications.
The Benefits of Radiofrequency Ablation
· It is less invasive than other procedures.
· It can be done in outpatient care where you can be allowed to go home after just a short period of monitoring.
· In most cases, only a sedative is used, and anaesthesia is avoided to minimize the risks associated with the anaesthesia.
· The results are immediate and can be long-lasting.
An interventional pain management consultation is essential as it can give you all you need to know before the procedure. It helps you know if you are a candidate, understand the procedures, learn about the risks, and know the benefits you can gain from the treatment. Start by booking an appointment at Republic Spine & Pain for more information.
