Radiofrequency neuroablation, also known as fulguration, is a pain management technique that uses heat to destroy the tissue. It is one of the best treatment options for people who suffer from long-term pain conditions such as arthritis or migraine.
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What exactly is radiofrequency ablation?
It is a minimally invasive technique that reduces the size of the nerve tissue by using radio waves. These radio waves destroy the nerve tissue, which then stops sending pain signals to the brain – this result in lasting relief for people who suffer from chronic pain in the neck, back, or joints.
In which all conditions is RFA beneficial?
The primary objective of getting RFA done is to stop or minimize pain, reduce the number of painkillers consumed, and improve function. It can be used to treat conditions like:
· Tumors
· Cancer pain
· Arthritis pain
· Peripheral nerve pain
· Pain in neck, knee, and back
How does it work?
The process of radiofrequency neuroablation typically involves using the heat produced by the radio waves to target the diseased tissue. When RFA is done on a particular tissue, it damages the nerves, stopping the pain signal from reaching the person’s brain and relieving them from pain.
Who can get RFA done?
Anyone who suffers from a chronic pain condition that cannot be treated by other types of pain medication or therapy can consider getting an RFA done. However, RFA is not an advisable process for those who:
· Have an infection
· Have bleeding problem
· Are pregnant
How to get an RFA done?
Before getting RFA, your doctor will carefully analyze your pain history and ask you several questions about what medicines you take. Generally, if someone is on aspirin or any blood-thinning medications, they need to stop taking them a few days before the process.
Apart from medication history, the doctor thoroughly examines all the x-rays of the diseased tissue to understand the pain level and rule out any other possible causes.
Finally, before the final procedure is done, doctors perform a diagnostic block, which determines the source and level of pain and predicts the level of relief the patient might get via the procedure.
PROCEDURE DETAILS
RFA is generally performed under mild sedation. Here is a step-by-step guide on how the procedure is carried out:
· The patient lies on their stomach on an X-ray table where their condition is monitored. During this time, the doctor uses a mild sedative to numb the area where the needle will be inserted. It is better to clean the treatment area properly to avoid any risks of infection.
· Following this, a needle is inserted in the area where the patient feels pain. Fluoroscopy, a real-time X-ray, constantly monitors the needle placement.
· Once the needle is placed accurately and the right location is identified, your doctor will send a radiofrequency current through the needle to heat the specified tissue.
· This current destroys the diseased tissue and stops it from sending pain signals to the brain.
Depending on the number of nerves the procedure is performed on, it takes around 30-90 minutes for the entire process to be completed.
What happens after the process?
It is recommended not to do strenuous activity for at least 24 hours after the treatment. It is possible that you feel some soreness or muscle spasms for a few days after RFA is done – in such cases, it is better to consult your doctor for pain medication. Applying an ice pack to the injected area can also give some relief. Finally, it is better to go for some pain therapy to regain your strength and flexibility.
