Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) uses a specialized device to reduce back pain, neck pain, arthritis pain, and other pain syndromes. RFA uses radio waves to create an electrical current to heat up a small area of nerve tissue with the goal of minimizing pain signals coming from the area.
The Procedure
- Using fluoroscopy (live X-ray video), a needle is inserted through tissue that has been numbed with a local anesthetic.
- After the needle has been guided to the affected area, the doctor introduces an electrode through the needle.
- The electrode heats up and causes nerve destruction which reduces the patient’s pain.
- After a short recovery period, the patient can go home.
- The patient may experience some slight discomfort when the anesthetic wears off