Am I a Candidate for Radiofrequency Ablation?

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure capable of managing chronic pain. It is frequently employed for the management of pain stemming from joints, often associated with spinal discomfort, particularly in the neck and lower back regions.
 
RFA is a method that specifically targets the nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals. By utilizing radio waves to generate an electrical current, the problematic nerves are heated which results in limiting their ability to transmit pain signals to the brain.
 
While RFA does not provide a permanent solution for musculoskeletal issues, it serves as a valuable intervention providing an extended period of pain relief, allowing patients the opportunity to explore more sustainable treatment options.
 
Various patients may be eligible candidates for this therapeutic approach, and it is at times used following a nerve block injection.
 
Radiofrequency ablation is typically considered as a treatment option for patients who have experienced successful pain relief following a diagnostic nerve or pain receptor block injection.
 
This is crucial as it confirms the accurate identification of the pain source. Additionally, it may be recommended for individuals dealing with chronic pain that have not responded to other treatments, including pain medication and physical therapy.

In preparation for RFA, the physician will carefully assess your medical history and review any previous imaging studies to determine the optimal location for the ablation.
 
It’s important to come prepared with any questions you may have for this appointment. Following the procedure, it’s advisable to be ready to return home and allow yourself to rest for the remainder of the day, as RFA is typically performed on an outpatient basis, enabling you to leave the medical facility on the same day.
 
The healthcare professionals at Advanced Gastroenterology will provide guidance on dietary restrictions before the procedure, and it is essential to adhere to these instructions closely.
 
During the actual procedure, a healthcare provider utilizes specialized needles to deliver radio waves and apply controlled heat to specific nerves. This process temporarily interrupts the nerves’ ability to transmit pain signals to the brain.

RFA serves as an effective pain management procedure for certain individuals dealing with chronic pain, particularly those encountering discomfort in areas like the knees, back, neck, and various joints.
 
RFA proves especially beneficial in alleviating pain for patients who have not achieved successful outcomes with alternative approaches, such as medication or other surgical procedures.
 
RFA is a versatile treatment method employed in the management of a diverse range of medical conditions. This encompasses the treatment of both benign and malignant tumors, addressing chronic venous insufficiency in the legs, and providing relief for chronic back and neck pain.
 
Additionally, RFA can be instrumental in managing other forms of pain, including abdominal discomfort associated with pancreatic cancer and pelvic pain stemming from ovarian cancer.

Radiofrequency ablation employs radio waves to generate heat, which is directed at specific tissue to induce its destruction. When applied to nerve tissue, this procedure can offer relief from persistent pain that has not responded to alternative treatment methods.
 
RFA can offer notable benefits to individuals who have responded positively to injection treatments such as steroid injections, epidurals, or nerve block injections.
 
It can also serve as a viable choice for individuals with underlying health conditions or medical circumstances that would render traditional open surgery dangerous.
 
The duration of pain relief can vary, ranging from six to twelve months, and in certain cases, it may extend for several years.
 
If you are living with chronic neck, back, or joint pain, RFA provides a potential solution. For optimal results, RFA is most effective when used as part of ongoing treatment that incorporates various pain management techniques, such as stress management and enhancing physical activity levels.

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is available at Advanced Gastroenterology. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We have convenient locations in Kissimmee FL, and Orlando FL. We serve patients from Kissimmee FL, Orlando FL, Celebration FL, Buenaventura Lakes FL, Williamsburg FL, St. Cloud FL, Meadow Woods FL, Hunters Creek FL, and surrounding areas.