Radiofrequency Rhizotomy
Radiofrequency Rhizotomy is a safe, proven means of effectively providing lasting relief from chronic pain such as Facet Joint Pain, performed by a pain specialist on an outpatient basis. The Center for Pain Management at Saint Anthony's Health Center offers this as an effective treatment for chronic pain sufferers living in and around the communities of Alton, Illinois.
Following the adminstration of a local anesthetic, your physician will use an X-ray to guide a small insulated needle into the general area where you are experiencing pain. Then your physician will stimulate the nerves near the tip of the needle to make sure it is correctly placed. When the correct site has been found, the Radiofrequency Rhizotomy treatment will begin.
During the treatment, a Radiofrequency Generator transmits a small radiofrequency current through the insulated needle, to disrupt the specific nerve sending pain signals to your brain. More than one area may need to be treated to achieve optimal pain relief.
Unlike surgery, there is no incision and the procedure is not particularly painful. A local anesthetic and a mild sedative are often used before the procedure to reduce any discomfort during treatment.
Both the anesthetic and sedative will affect your ability to drive.
You may experience some discomfort at the site of Radiofrequency Rhizotomy. However, this discomfort usually subsides and can be treated with medication during this short period of time. Most people can return to work one or two days after the procedure.
If you have chronic pain, only your physician can decide whether this procedure is right for you. Your physician may use nerve blocks to see if you might respond to Radiofrequency Rhizotomy.
Radiofrequency Rhizotomy treatment should provide the pain relief you need, to allow you to resume your daily activities. Pain relief usually lasts for 3-24 months (results may vary depending on the individual).
On occasion, your body may regenerate the nerve(s) responsible for sending pain signals to your brain. If this occurs, the Radiofrequency Rhizotomy treatment can be performed again.
As with any medical procedure, however minor, there are certain risks involved. Please consult your physician for more details on Radiofrequency Rhizotomy treatments.
For more information on Saint Anthony's Center for Pain Management, please call: 618/474-4866.