Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses electrical energy to target and disrupt nerve tissue responsible for chronic pain. This outpatient treatment involves inserting a thin, specialized needle through the skin and positioning it near the affected nerve. Once in place, a controlled electrical current passes through the needle, generating heat that precisely damages the nerve tissue, effectively interrupting pain signal transmission to the brain.

RFA is a versatile treatment used for a range of conditions, including:

Chronic Neck and Back Pain

In cases of spine-related pain, RFA targets the sensory nerves that transmit pain from the facet joints. By disabling these nerves, the procedure significantly reduces or eliminates pain.

Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)

In addition to nerve pain, RFA is also used in vein treatment. When applied inside a damaged vein, the heat generated by RFA causes the vein to collapse and seal shut. This stops blood from flowing backward and improves circulation, effectively treating symptoms associated with varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency.

Did You Know?

Radiofrequency ablation offers several key benefits for individuals suffering from chronic pain or venous conditions:

Minimally invasive – No large incisions required
Performed on an outpatient basis – Go home the same day
Improves daily function and overall quality of life
More affordable than many surgical alternatives
Reduces the need for ongoing pain medications
Low risk of complications when performed by experienced providers
Quick recovery – Most patients return to normal activities within just a few days

Radiofrequency ablation is a safe and effective option for many patients looking for long-term pain relief without the downtime of traditional surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Who is a candidate for radiofrequency ablation?

Radiofrequency ablation may be a suitable treatment option if you are experiencing:

Chronic neck or back pain
Varicose or spider veins
Symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency

While RFA is a safe and effective procedure for many, it may not be recommended for certain individuals, including:

Those with serious heart conditions
Pregnant women
Children or adolescents

The best way to determine if RFA is right for you is through a comprehensive evaluation. Schedule a consultation with the experienced team at Cellara Pain Institute to discuss your symptoms, review your medical history, and explore the most effective treatment options for your needs.

What to Expect During Radiofrequency Ablation?

During a radiofrequency ablation (RFA) procedure, you may experience a brief warm or cool sensation as the electrical current is delivered through the needle. Some patients also notice a mild tingling feeling in the treatment area. These sensations are temporary and typically well-tolerated.

The procedure is relatively quick and is performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you’ll be able to return home the same day. Recovery is typically minimal, with most patients resuming normal activities within a few days.

Your specific experience may vary depending on the area being treated and the underlying condition. Your provider at Cellara Pain Institute will explain each step of the process and ensure you feel informed and comfortable before, during, and after the procedure.

For Varicose Veins

When undergoing radiofrequency ablation to treat varicose veins, the procedure typically takes between 30 minutes to one hour. A local anesthetic will be administered to numb the treatment area, and a tourniquet may be used to temporarily restrict blood flow for precision.

Once the area is numb, a small incision is made in the skin, and a thin catheter is inserted into the affected vein. Through this catheter, controlled radiofrequency energy is delivered to gently heat the vein wall, causing it to collapse and seal shut. This redirects blood flow to healthier veins, reducing symptoms and improving circulation.

After the procedure, a sterile dressing is applied to the incision site. Most patients are able to walk immediately after the procedure and return to normal activities within a few days, with minimal downtime.

What to Expect: Radiofrequency Ablation for Chronic Neck and Back Pain?

For chronic neck and back pain, radiofrequency ablation (RFA) typically takes 30 to 90 minutes to complete. A local anesthetic is administered to numb the treatment area, ensuring your comfort throughout the procedure. Once the anesthetic takes effect, a small incision is made, and a needle is carefully inserted into the targeted nerve using x-ray guidance (fluoroscopy) for precision.

Once the needle is positioned near the affected medial or lateral branch nerves, a controlled electrical current is passed through the needle, generating heat that destroys the nerve. This interruption of pain signal transmission can provide long-lasting relief from chronic neck and back pain.

After the procedure, a sterile dressing will be applied to the incision site, and you will be monitored for a short period before returning home. Most patients experience minimal discomfort and can resume daily activities with little to no downtime.

What to Expect After Radiofrequency Ablation Treatment

Following radiofrequency ablation, it is normal to experience some soreness, redness, or bruising at the site where the needle was inserted. You may also feel a bit tired for a few days as your body recovers.

It’s important to carefully follow your doctor’s post-procedure instructions to ensure proper healing. These instructions may vary depending on the area treated and the specifics of your procedure.

For most patients, normal activities can be resumed within a few days, though you should avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting until your doctor clears you. Any discomfort typically resolves quickly, and you can expect to see significant improvements in pain relief as you heal.