Ready For Radiofrequency Ablation?
Is chronic back or neck pain affecting simple everyday tasks? More than 60 million Americans have moderate to severe back pain. When medication or physical therapy (PT) fails to bring relief, a doctor may suggest radiofrequency ablation (RFA) to treat the pain. This simple, minimally invasive procedure uses heat to destroy nerve ends or tissue. The process is relatively quick, safe, and typically takes less than 1 hour to complete. Patients undergoing RFA will be surprised to know that the procedure does not require an overnight stay at a hospital.
What to expect during the procedure
Radiofrequency ablation uses high-frequency radio waves to heat and destroys nerve tissue. The procedure is usually performed using local anesthesia, numbing just the treated area. The doctor inserts a needle using a process called fluoroscopy. Once the needle is in place, radiofrequency waves will be passed through the needle to destroy the affected nerves with heat. Most people experience little to no discomfort during and after the operation. After a short wait, the patient can leave the same day.
Recovery at home
Although patients can leave on the same day, there is a short recovery period at home. Doctors advise that patients stay at home and rest during that time. There will be soreness and discomfort at the injection site for a few days. However, patients can typically resume regular activity within 2 days. Avoiding strenuous activity for 1 week or more after the procedure may be recommended. Plan for a follow-up visit 1-2 weeks after RFA to determine if the procedure was successful.
Potential side effects
The RFA procedure effectively alleviates pain in at least 50% of patients. However, this treatment also carries some risks. The most common side effects are temporary numbness, tingling, and bruising. There may also be a painful reaction at the injection site. Other possible side effects include skin sensitivity, muscle weakness, and infections. Let the doctor know if the pain becomes unbearable or lasts more than 2 weeks. In some cases, serious side effects may trigger the need for an overnight stay in the hospital. However, this is rare, and most patients can leave immediately.
Get treated, then leave
Radiofrequency ablation is generally considered a safe and effective treatment option with a low risk of complications. By destroying nerve endings, the treatment disrupts the pain connected to the brain. RFA is not a permanent fix but can give patients about 6-12 months of relief. Most procedures happen outpatient at a doctor’s office, surgical center, or radiologist’s office. When done correctly, the patient can leave on the same day.
Recent Posts
Will I Need Assistance At Home Following Carpal Tunnel Surgery?
Carpal tunnel can be debilitating and sometimes requires surgery. Most people need some assistance at home during recovery.
Post-Operative Precautions Following Ear Tube Placement
Post-operative precautions after ear tube surgery are important. Taking medications and attending follow-up visits can help with recovery.
The Problems A Deviated Septum Can Cause: When To Schedule Your Septoplasty
A deviated septum occurs when the bony structure separating the nostrils is crooked. Problems can often be helped by septoplasty.
Being Pain Free: Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injections For Relief
Chronic back or neck pain can benefit from transforaminal epidural steroid injections. The quick procedure can provide pain-free relief.
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
