Radiofrequency neurotomy is a procedure that uses radio waves to heat and destroy small nerve fibers in order to reduce pain. It is used to treat chronic pain caused by conditions such as neuralgia and facet joint syndrome. During the procedure, a small needle is inserted through the skin and into the targeted nerve.

A small electrical current is then passed through the needle to heat the nerve, which disrupts the ability of the nerve to transmit pain signals. The procedure is commonly done under local anesthesia and it’s usually done as an outpatient procedure. Some people may experience immediate pain relief, while others may experience pain relief gradually over several days or weeks.

Radiofrequency neurotomy is usually considered for individuals who have been suffering from chronic pain for at least six months and have not found relief through more traditional treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or epidural injections.
 
The procedure is typically recommended for individuals who have not responded well to other treatments, who can’t tolerate other treatments, or have contraindications to other treatments. Your doctor will consider your specific condition, medical history, and overall health when determining if radiofrequency neurotomy is the right treatment option for you.

Radiofrequency neurotomy is a procedure that uses radio waves to heat and destroy small nerve fibers in order to reduce pain. It is used to treat chronic pain caused by conditions such as:
 
Facet joint syndrome – Facet joint syndrome presents as pain and inflammation in the joints that connect the vertebrae of the spine.

Sacroiliac joint pain – This pain is experienced in the joint between the sacrum and the hip bone. This joint connects the spine to the pelvis and can cause pain in the lower back, hips, and legs.

Neuralgia – Neuralgia chronic pain caused by nerve damage, such as trigeminal neuralgia, a condition that causes severe facial pain.

Myofascial pain – Myofascial pain is caused by muscle tissue damage, it’s a chronic pain disorder that affects the fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds muscles, bones, and organs.
 
Radiofrequency neurotomy may also be used to treat other conditions such as headaches, chronic neck pain and certain types of chronic regional pain syndrome (CRPS).

A radiofrequency neurotomy procedure is performed in a clinic setting and may be done under local anesthesia or sedation. Here is what you can expect during the radiofrequency neurotomy treatment:

Preparation – You will be asked to remove any jewelry or other objects that could interfere with the procedure. You will lie on your stomach or back, depending on the location of the targeted nerve.

Anesthesia – You will be given a local anesthetic to numb the area where the needle will be inserted. In some cases, you may be given a mild sedative to help you relax during the procedure.

Needle insertion – Your doctor will use imaging guidance, such as X-ray or fluoroscopy, to guide a thin needle to the targeted nerve.

Radiofrequency energy – Once the needle is in place, your doctor will use a small electrical current to heat the needle, which disrupts the ability of the nerve to transmit pain signals.

Monitoring – Your doctor will monitor your vital signs and pain levels during the procedure, and will adjust the procedure as needed to ensure your comfort.

Recovery – The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to complete. After the procedure, you will be monitored for a short period of time to ensure that you are stable before you are allowed to go home.

It’s possible that the treatment may cause some discomfort or pain during and after the procedure, but it should be temporary.

You should also follow any specific instructions from your doctor regarding post-procedure care, such as rest and medication.

It’s important to communicate with your doctor about any discomfort or pain during the recovery process to ensure the best outcome.

For more information, contact us today or schedule an appointment to discover more. We are located at 1 Layfair Drive, Suite 400 Flowood, MS 39232. We serve patients from Flowood MS, Jackson MS, Pearl MS, Richland MS, Ridgeland MS, Langford MS, Brandon MS, and the entire central Mississippi area.