Radiofrequency Ablation Specialist Q&A

With radiofrequency ablation (RFA), radio waves produce an electrical current that heats up a small area of damaged nerve tissue. The heating of the tissue halts the ability of the nerve to send pain signals to the brain. Radiofrequency ablation is used to treat several conditions, including chronic neck and back pain stemming from the vertebral facet joints, the hip’s sacroiliac joints, or the posterior pelvis, and is a proven and effective way to help reduce pain.

You will first meet with your doctor to evaluate if you are a candidate for the treatment, and you’ll be informed of the details of the procedure, and have your questions answered. Before the procedure begins, you will receive a mild sedative and local anesthesia through an intravenous (IV) line to reduce any discomfort during the procedure. You will be fully conscious throughout the procedure and pain-free, as your doctor will ask for your feedback about the effects of the RFA as it is being performed. After the local anesthesia has taken effect, using an x-ray as a guide, your doctor will insert a small needle into the pain area. Inserted through the needle is a microelectrode to begin the process. The objective of the stimulation process is to help your doctor determine if the electrode is in the correct area for treatment by asking if you can feel any tingling sensations. After the placement of the electrode is verified to be in the correct area, radiofrequency waves are sent through the electrode which will heat up the surrounding tissue, reducing, or eliminating pain in the area. Following the radiofrequency ablation, you will stay in the recovery room for observation where your vital signs are monitored. The injection site will be bandaged and you’ll be ready for discharge. You will be required to have a ride home due to the sedation medication given during treatment, and to refrain from driving for at least 24 hours. Pain relief is commonly achieved with an initial radiofrequency ablation treatment, but the procedure can be repeated if the pain symptoms return.

The ideal candidate for radiofrequency ablation is someone who suffers from chronic (long-lasting) back or neck pain, or pain related to joint degeneration from arthritis, and has had no pain relief from other treatment options, like over-the-counter pain medication, physical therapy, or regenerative medicine. Radiofrequency ablation is not recommended for those who have active infections or bleeding disorders, or for those currently on any medication for mental illness. In addition, RFA is not performed in patients who are allergic to local anesthetics or have increased intracranial pressure.

Surveys have shown that more than 70 percent of people who undergo radiofrequency ablation experience relief of pain, which can last from 6 to 12 months. In some cases, the pain relief can last for up to 2 to 3 years.

Some additional benefits of radiofrequency ablation include:

– Improved neck and back function and pain reduction
– Reduction, or elimination of pain medications
– Delay or avoidance of surgery

Though the pain may not be entirely eliminated, moderate pain relief allows for the restoration of joint and back function, making daily tasks much more tolerable. 

Our highly trained, experienced, and professional team of pain management specialists at InovoSpine in Houston, Texas is proud to provide our patients with the most innovative and effective pain management options available. Whether it’s diagnostic mapping or minimally invasive procedures like radiofrequency ablation treatment, our team will help determine the best path to pain reduction for you. Contact our care center, or visit our website to arrange a consultation. We serve patients from Houston TX, Hedwig Village TX, Meadows Place TX, Missouri City TX, Hunters Creek Village TX, Spring Valley Village TX and surrounding areas.