Radio Frequency Lesioning

What is Radio Frequency Lesioning?
Radio Frequency Lesioning is a procedure using a specialized machine to interrupt nerve conduction on a semi-permanent to permanent basis.

Am I a candidate for Radio Frequency Lesioning?
Radio Frequency Lesioning is offered to patients with RSD/CRPS/SMP involving upper or lower extremities and patients with mechanical low back pain secondary to facet joint disease. These patients have previously responded to local anesthetic blocks.

What is the purpose of this procedure?
The procedure disrupts nerve conduction (such as conduction of pain signals), and it may in turn reduce pain, and other related symptoms.

How long does the procedure take?
Depending upon the areas to be treated, the procedure can take from 30 minutes to an hour.

How is the procedure performed?
The needle(s) is (are) placed under x-ray guidance and a local anesthetic like novocaine is injected. After confirmation of the needle tip position, a special needle is inserted. The tissues surrounding the needle tip are heated when electronic current is passed using the Radio Frequency machine for a few seconds. This "burns" the nerves.

Will the procedure hurt?
The procedure involves inserting a needle through skin and deeper tissues (like a "tetanus shot"). So, there is some discomfort involved. However, we numb the skin and deeper tissues with a local anesthetic using a very thin needle prior to inserting the needle.

Will I be "put out" for this procedure?
No. This procedure is done under local anesthesia.

How is this procedure performed?
It is usually done with the patient lying on their stomach. The patients are monitored with EKG, blood pressure cuff and blood oxygen-monitoring device. The skin on the back is cleaned with antiseptic solution and then the procedure is carried out. X-ray (fluoroscopy) is used to guide the needles.

What should I expect after the procedure?
If the procedure is successful, you may feel that your pain may be gone or greatly lessened. You may have soreness due to the needles for a day or two.

What should I do after the procedure?
You should have a ride home. We advise the patients to take it easy for a day or so after the procedure. You may want to apply ice to the affected area. Perform the activities as tolerated by you.

Can I go to work the next day?
Unless there are complications, you should be able to return to your work the next day. The most common thing you may feel is soreness at the injection site.

How long will the effects of the procedure last?
The effects of the procedure can last from several days to several months.

How many procedures do I need to have?
If the first procedure does not relieve your symptoms completely, you may be recommended to have a repeat procedure after re-evaluation.

Will the Radio Frequency Lesioning help me?
It is very difficult to predict if the procedure will indeed help you or not. Generally speaking, the patients who have responded to local anesthetic blocks will have better results.

What are the risks and side effects?
Generally speaking, this procedure is safe. However, with any procedure there are risks, side effects, and possibility of complications. The risks and complications are dependent upon the sites that are lesioned. Please discuss your concerns with your physician.

Who should not have this procedure?
If you are on a blood thinning medication (e.g. Coumadin, Plavix), or if you have an active infection going on, you should not have the procedure. If you have not responded to local anesthetic blocks (Facet Injections), you may not be a candidate for this procedure.