RADIOFREQUENCY ABLATION FOR PAIN MANAGEMENT

Radiofrequency Treatment for Chronic Back and Neck Pain

The spine is made up of multiple vertebrae stacked on top of each other. Between these vertebrae are discs made of cartilaginous material that act as cushions, absorbing shocks. Over time, wear and tear or degeneration of these discs and joints between vertabrae can cause pain in the back or neck. Additionally, continuous pressure on the vertebrae can lead to the protrusion of these discs, which may compress nearby nerves and structures, causing pain to radiate to other areas, such as the back of the legs. Pain from this condition is usually described as a dull ache, often accompanied by stiffness. Lower back pain commonly radiates along the back of the thighs to the knee joint, while pain from the lower neck (cervical) joints may radiate between the shoulder blades or to the shoulder joint. Pain from the upper neck joints can also result in headaches.

Radiofrequency Ablation is a widely used procedure for managing chronic lower back and neck pain. Also known as radiofrequency thermocoagulation or radiofrequency neurotomy, it is particularly effective in treating pain caused by inflammation in the spinal joints. This procedure offers a safe, non-surgical, and minimally invasive option for individuals suffering from long-term back and cervical pain. It is applicable in various medical specialties, including dermatology and pain management.

Advantages of Radiofrequency Ablation Procedure

• No need for a hospital stay or lengthy rehabilitation.
• Most normal activities can typically be resumed shortly after the procedure with minimal recovery time.
• Reduced pain leads to improved functionality and decreased reliance on medications.
• Offers long-lasting pain relief with a low complication rate.
• Enhances overall function and quality of life.

How Radiofrequency Ablation Works for Managing Back and Neck Pain:

Radiofrequency (RF) is a medical technique that uses electrical energy to generate heat, which is then directed at specific tissues in the body. This controlled application of radiofrequency has been proven effective in treating a wide range of medical conditions, making it a popular choice across multiple medical specialties.

Pain signals from the intervertebral joints are transmitted to the brain via certain nerves, which are the targets of radiofrequency treatment. The procedure involves using X-ray guidance to accurately position special needles near the nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals from the affected joints. Using specialized equipment, a small section of these nerves is heated by an electric current generated through radio waves. This process reduces the transmission of pain signals to the brain, providing significant pain relief.

Radiofrequency ablation is a day-care procedure performed under local anesthesia, and it can provide long-lasting relief from pain.

Why Is the Radiofrequency Ablation Procedure Done?

Radiofrequency procedures are performed to achieve specific therapeutic goals, such as tissue ablation, lesion reduction, avoid or delay surgery, or cosmetic enhancement. The procedure addresses a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, tumors, and skin aging.

Difference Between Radiofrequency Ablation and Rizotomy:

Rizotomy:

• Rizotomy is a surgical procedure in which sensory nerve roots are selectively cut or damaged to block pain transmission. It is typically performed when a specific nerve or group of nerves is causing pain.
• During a rizotomy, a surgeon either cuts, removes, or uses heat to destroy the targeted nerves, often at the nerve roots where they exit the spinal cord.
• Rizotomy is more invasive than radiofrequency ablation, as it generally requires an incision and may involve deeper tissue manipulation.

Radiofrequency Ablation:

• Radiofrequency ablation is a non-surgical procedure where specialized needles are inserted near the nerves causing pain, guided by imaging like X-ray. The needles emit radiofrequency energy to generate heat, which disrupts the nerve’s ability to transmit pain signals.
• The heat generated by radiofrequency energy can be precisely applied to specific nerve tissues, altering their function to reduce pain.
• It is performed through needle punctures, reducing tissue damage and promoting a faster recovery compared to rizotomy.

Types of Radiofrequency Ablation Procedures:

There are several types of radiofrequency procedures, each designed to address specific medical conditions:

• Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): This procedure is used to destroy or shrink abnormal tissue, such as tumors, or to block pain signals, providing relief from conditions like chronic pain.
• Radiofrequency Skin Tightening: Commonly used by dermatologists, this procedure stimulates collagen production to tighten the skin, improve elasticity, and reduce wrinkles, offering a non-surgical solution for skin rejuvenation.

Who Is a Candidate for Radiofrequency Ablation?

Eligibility for radiofrequency procedures depends on the medical condition being treated. Your orthopedic surgeon will evaluate each case individually, considering the patient’s overall health, medical history, and suitability for this type of treatment.

Preparation for the Radiofrequency Ablation Procedure:

• Consultation: Patients will meet with a doctor to discuss their medical history, current medications, and expectations for the procedure.
• Diagnostic tests: Depending on the case, tests like blood test or imaging scans may be conducted to assess the condition.
• Medication adjustments: Your orthopedic surgeon may suggest adjustment to your medications, such as blood thinners, to minimize risks during the procedure.

How Is the Radiofrequency Ablation Procedure Performed?

The steps involved in a radiofrequency procedure are as follows:

1. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia or sedation is administered to ensure comfort.
2. Placement of electrodes or probes: Specialized electrodes are inserted into or near the targeted tissue under imaging guidance.
3. Radiofrequency application: Radiofrequency energy is delivered through the electrodes to heat the target tissue, causing thermal destruction or nerve modification.
4. Monitoring: Vital signs are monitored, and adjustments are made to ensure the procedure’s accuracy and effectiveness.
5. Confirmation of success: Follow-up tests or imaging may be performed to confirm the procedure’s effectiveness.

Risks and Complications:

While radiofrequency ablation is generally safe, there are potential risks, such as:

• Infection at the insertion site
• Bleeding, especially if blood-thinning medications aren’t properly adjusted
• Skin burns from improper electrode placement or excessive heat
• Temporary discomfort or pain at the treatment site

Recovery After the Procedure:

Post-procedure recovery varies, but generally, patients can expect:

• Your orthopedic surgeon will advise on follow-up appointments to monitor progress, assess effectiveness, and address any concerns.
• Depending on the procedure and condition, immediate relief may be experienced, or multiple sessions may be needed for full benefits.
• Over-the-counter or prescribed pain medications may be recommended for a few days after the procedure.
• Avoiding strenuous activities and heavy lifting for a period of time to allow for healing.

Conclusion:

Chronic back and neck pain can wear down more than just your body, it can chip away at your energy, focus, and quality of life. Radiofrequency Ablation offers a way forward. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, but for many people, it provides long-term pain relief without the need for invasive surgery or a long recovery. 

At Reem Hospital, we believe in giving our patients options that are effective, evidence-based, and aligned with their lifestyle. If pain has slowed you down, it may be time to explore whether this minimally invasive procedure could be right for you. Because when pain stops being a daily struggle, life starts feeling a little more like yours again.