Radio Frequency Ablation: Burning the Pain Away

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat a variety of medical conditions. It involves the use of radiofrequency energy to heat and destroy targeted tissue, typically in the form of a tumor or abnormal growth. One of the most common uses of RFA is in the treatment of chronic pain, particularly pain associated with the spine or joints. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at RFA, how it works, and the conditions it can help treat.

How Radiofrequency Ablation Works

RFA works by using a special device, called a radiofrequency electrode, to deliver high-frequency electrical currents to a targeted area. These electrical currents heat up the tissue, causing it to break down and ultimately be destroyed. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and patients are typically able to return home the same day.

To perform RFA, a doctor will first use imaging technology, such as X-rays or ultrasound, to identify the targeted tissue. They will then use a small needle to insert the radiofrequency electrode into the area. Once the electrode is in place, the doctor will use a generator to deliver the high-frequency electrical currents to the tissue. The entire procedure usually takes less than an hour.

Conditions Treated with Radiofrequency Ablation

One of the most common uses of RFA is in the treatment of chronic pain, particularly pain associated with the spine or joints. This includes conditions such as:

• Facet joint pain: Facet joints are small joints located in the spine that help with movement and stability. When these joints become inflamed, they can cause pain in the back or neck. RFA can be used to heat and destroy the nerves that supply these joints, effectively reducing or eliminating pain.
• Sacroiliac joint pain: The sacroiliac joints are located where the spine meets the pelvis. When these joints become inflamed, they can cause pain in the lower back or hips. RFA can be used to heat and destroy the nerves that supply these joints, reducing or eliminating pain.
• Peripheral nerve pain: RFA can also be used to treat pain associated with damaged or inflamed peripheral nerves, which are nerves located outside of the spinal cord and brain.

RFA can also be used to treat a variety of other conditions including liver cancer, lung cancer, kidney cancer, and osteoid osteoma.

Benefits of Radiofrequency Ablation

RFA offers a number of benefits over other treatments for chronic pain and other conditions. These include:

• Minimally invasive: RFA is a minimally invasive procedure, meaning it requires only a small incision and typically does not require general anesthesia. This reduces the risk of complications and shortens recovery time.
• High success rate: RFA has a high success rate in treating chronic pain and other conditions, with many patients experiencing significant pain relief for several months or even years after the procedure.
• Short recovery time: Because RFA is minimally invasive, patients typically experience a short recovery time and can return to their normal activities within a few days.
• Low risk of complications: RFA has a low risk of complications, particularly when compared to other treatments for chronic pain and other conditions.

Recovery Time

Recovery time after a radiofrequency ablation can vary depending on the patient and the area of the body being treated. However, radio frequency ablations are a minimally invasive procedure, and most patients are able to return to their normal activities within a few days. Here is a typical timeline of what patients can expect during the recovery period after RFA:

• Immediately after the procedure: Patients are typically monitored in a recovery room for a short period of time. They may experience some discomfort or soreness at the site of the procedure, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
• First 24-48 hours: Patients should avoid strenuous activities and rest as much as possible. They may also need to apply ice to the site of the procedure to help reduce swelling and discomfort.
• First week: Patients should continue to avoid strenuous activities and may need to take time off work or school to rest. They should also avoid soaking the site of the procedure, such as in a bathtub or swimming pool.
• 2-4 weeks: Patients can gradually begin to increase their activity level and return to their normal routine. However, they should still avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for at least 2-4 weeks after the procedure
• Long-term recovery: Most patients experience significant pain relief within a few days or weeks after RFA. The effects of RFA can last for several months or even years, although the duration of pain relief can vary depending on the patient and the condition being treated. Patients should continue to monitor their symptoms and follow up with their doctor regularly to ensure the best possible outcome.

Overall, recovery time after RFA is generally short, and most patients are able to resume their normal activities within a few days to a week after the procedure. However, it is important for patients to follow their doctor's instructions carefully and to give themselves time to rest and recover fully. If you have any questions about Radio Frequency Ablation click “Book Now” to schedule an appointment with a specialist at Garden State Pain and Orthopedics. To read about our providers, click here.

Click services to read about our other treatments.