What is a Rhizotomy? A Rhizotomy or radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a procedure that may be ordered by your physician to address chronic pain associated with or emanating from degenerative or age related changes of your facet joints, which are small joints of the spine.
How does it work? Essentially, RFA is a procedure in which the nerves are heated above physiologic (normal body) temperature causing denaturing of the nerve which is providing pain sensation, in many cases the purpose is to limit pain sensation to an effected joint.
Why might your doctor order a Rhizotomy? A RFA may be ordered to alleviate pain in certain spine conditions or pain in other peripheral joints such as the knees. Prior to you and your physician deciding to proceed with a RFA, a series of nerve blocks may be ordered as a test to help determine if it is reasonable to proceed with the RFA.
Preparation for a Rhizotomy In preparation to your procedure you may be requested to stop taking some of your previously prescribed medications and be cleared of any known infection. This will be discussed further with the office personal and your physician prior to scheduling.
What to expect after a Rhizotomy After the RFA you may feel some post procedure soreness. It may take a couple of weeks for you to feel the full beneficial results of the procedure.