Radiofrequency neurotomy, also known as radiofrequency ablation or injury, is a process of deliberately injuring nerves to prevent pain signals from being sent to the brain and processed by the brain. This is a minimally invasive surgery for patients with chronic pain who have not found relief from more conservative treatments.
Radiofrequency therapy can be used in patients with degenerative disc, facet joint or ankle joint [SI] joint pain. Under fluoroscopic guidance, the electrodes are inserted into the body and placed on the target nerve. Once properly positioned, the electrodes are heated to create lesions on the nerves. The latest advanced form of the program includes a cooling phase; this increases the area of electrode impact and can be used at certain locations in the body.
This treatment is not a permanent solution; over time, nerve healing and pain recovery. It is important to remember that radiofrequency is a treatment for pain symptoms, not its initial cause. Review the following pros and cons before deciding whether to accept this program.
advantage
For people who are unable to perform daily activities or work due to pain, surgery such as radiofrequency ablation may be very positive. If effective, the program can allow people to return to work and perform basic daily activities, such as walking without excessive pain.
The results of radiofrequency therapy can last up to a year or two, which may make it more attractive than steroid injections, another common treatment for back and SI joint pain.
Compared with other surgical methods that eliminate joint and intervertebral disc pain, especially fusion surgery, neurotomy is a less invasive procedure. The fusion forms a rigid section between the vertebrae or the pelvis and the tibia to inhibit painful movement due to instability. The procedure has high prices and many risks, including accelerated degradation of the facet joints and spinal discs near the fusion joint. Radiofrequency injury can provide adequate pain relief to avoid more invasive procedures.
Studies have shown that this procedure is helpful to some 70% of people who receive it and may reduce dependence on expensive and dangerous painkillers. See http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/studies-published-in-pain-medicine-demonstrate-effectiveness-of-minimally-invasive-cooled-radiofrequency-treatment-for-low-back-pain-194185701 .html is used to support the use of cooled radiofrequency for the treatment of discogenic arthritis and SI joint pain.
Disadvantage
Radiofrequency damage worsens the pain and then makes it better. The first week after surgery can be difficult due to localized pain and swelling. Some patients who have been treated report that it may take a month or two to feel any positive effects.
Some patients who have received treatment have never experienced remission. If the surgery is not correct and the target nerve is not completely damaged, some people may even feel more pain; this will cause it to increase the pain signal output. See http://www.spine-health.com/forum/treatment/pain-management/rf-neurotomy-ablation-has-worked-you-how-long-did-it-take-notice-resRead comments from Many people who receive it.
It must be remembered that this treatment is not a cure; it masks the pain. Whether your pain is caused by a degenerated disc, a small joint or an SI joint, it is important to continue working to resolve the problem. Study alternative medicine and find treatments that you may not know. Use the time you have no pain or pain reduction after radiofrequency therapy to exercise therapy and strengthen the core muscles that support the joints and the spinal disc.
If pain interferes with your quality of life, RF neurotomy may be the treatment that is right for you. However, the focus of any chronic pain treatment plan should be to address the cause of the pain, not just to cover up the symptoms.
Orignal From: The advantages and disadvantages of radiofrequency treatment for chronic back pain
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