Treatment Brief
What is radiofrequency ablation (RFA)?
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA), also called radiofrequency neurotomy, uses radio waves to create a current that heats a small area of nerve tissue. The heat destroys that area of the nerve, stopping it from sending pain signals to your brain. RFA can provide lasting relief for people with chronic pain, especially in the lower back, neck and arthritic joints.
Why is radiofrequency ablation (RFA) done?
The goals of radiofrequency ablation are to:
- Stop or reduce pain.
- Improve function.
- Reduce the number of pain medications taken.
- Avoid or delay surgery.
How does radiofrequency ablation work?
Radiofrequency ablation uses heat produced from radio waves to target diseased tissue. When radiofrequency is applied to nerve tissue, it damages nerves, which prevents or stops the pain signal from reaching the brain and results in pain relief.
During a radiofrequency ablation procedure, a small hollow needle is inserted into the targeted nerve that is causing pain. An electrode is inserted into the top of the needle, which sends the radio waves through the needle to the targeted nerve. The heat causes a lesion that prevents the nerve from sending pain signals to your brain. Nearby healthy nerves are not damaged during the procedure.
Who is a candidate for radiofrequency ablation (RFA)?
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) may be right for you if have:
- Pain relief following a nerve block injection. This tells your provider that that particular nerve is the source of your pain and is an appropriate target for RFA.
- Chronic pain that does not respond to other treatment, such as pain medication and physical therapy.
You may not be a candidate for radiofrequency ablation if you:
- Are pregnant.
- Have an infection.
- Have a bleeding problem.
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Advantage
What are the advantages of radiofrequency ablation?
Advantages of radiofrequency ablation include:
- Pain relief.
- No surgery.
- Little to no recovery time.
- Decreased need for pain medications.
- Improved function.
- Return to regular activities after a day or two of rest.
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