Radio Frequency Ablations
WHAT IS RADIOFREQUENCY ABLATION?
Radiofrequency ablation, also known as radiofrequency neurotomy, is a procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to create heat, effectively managing certain types of chronic pain. By damaging a small area of nerve tissue, it disrupts the function of the nerves, preventing the transmission of pain signals.
HOW IS THE PROCEDURE PERFORMED?
During your procedure, an anaesthetist will administer intravenous sedation for relaxation. This minimally invasive process is conducted in a hospital theatre or day procedure centre with specialised imaging guidance, allowing your doctor to safely position a needle near the nerves. A radiofrequency electrode is inserted, and its position is verified by administering an electric current, which may cause tingling, tightness, or pressure in the area of your usual pain, along with pulsing in your muscles. Subsequently, local anaesthetic and/or steroid is injected through the needle, and the radiofrequency electrode is used to heat the adjacent nerve.
HOW LONG DOES THE EFFECT LAST?
Pain relief may last from 1 to 2 years. It is possible the nerve will regrow through the burned lesion that was created by radiofrequency ablation. It may take 4 to 8 weeks for pain relief to be achieved post RFA procedure. The procedure can be repeated if needed.
WHAT SHOULD BE DONE BEFORE THE PROCEDURE?
Prior to the procedure, you may need to stop blood thinning products as directed by your doctor. Other regular medications can be taken with a sip of water on the morning of the procedure. Insulin-dependent diabetics will likely be prioritised on the list and should bring their insulin for potential administration after the procedure. Hospital staff will call you the day before the procedure to provide fasting and admission times. DO NOT eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum before the procedure. Arrange for someone to drive you home afterward, as you won’t be able to drive for 24 hours due to the received anaesthesia.
WHAT IS THE NEXT STEP AFTER THE PROCEDURE?
After a short time in the recovery ward, you will be discharged home. Minimise strenuous activity for 1 to 2 weeks, then resume normal activity as tolerated. You can shower 24 hours after the procedure with the waterproof dressing on, and you can remove the dressing after 3 days. Expect a temporary increase in pain for 1 to 3 weeks post procedure. A follow up appointment with Dr. Mohabbati will be scheduled in approximately 6 weeks, or sooner if needed.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS AND SIDE EFFECTS?
Serious side effects and complications are rare. The most common problem after the procedure is having pain in the area of the procedure for 1 to 3 weeks. Please contact your local GP or the rooms if you have any allergic reaction to the medication administered in hospital, signs of infection at your procedure site.