Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency Ablation, sometimes referred to as Rhizotomy, is a common procedure performed here at Texas Partners Healthcare Group that targets the nerves that send pain signals to the brain. This minimally-invasive procedure is usually performed with a local anesthetic and mild sedation to ensure the comfort of the patient. Using a live x-ray (fluoroscopy), one of our doctors will be able to target the specific nerves and area that is causing you pain. This is not unlike other spinal injections, namely because it is the most efficient way to numb the area and avoid nerve damage or other injury.

When you come into Texas Partners Healthcare Group for this procedure, you will be given an intravenous medication to relax you and make you comfortable. You will then be asked to lie on your stomach or back for the x-ray, depending on the source of your pain. After the doctor numbs the area with a local anesthetic, he or she will do the following:

• Insert a needle into the area you are experiencing pain
• Insert a microelectrode through the needle and then ask you if you notice a tingling sensation (this is done to ensure your doctor has identified the source of pain and right area for treatment)
• Send a radiofrequency current through the needle and electrode to heat the damaged nerve tissue

In most cases, patients are able to go home following the procedure. The majority of individuals experience some level of pain relief following radiofrequency ablation. However, the extent of this relief will depend on the person, source of pain, and what is causing the pain. Some people have reported experiencing relief for six to 12 months, whereas others are pain-free for years.

This procedure is one of the most popular performed at each of our Texas Partners Healthcare Group clinics, and for good reason. Not only is it minimally-invasive, but it has been proven to provide patients with long-term relief. Some additional benefits include:

• Radiofrequency ablation can be performed in a matter of minutes
• The recovery time is very short

If you have been living with chronic pain and haven’t had success with other forms of treatment, please contact one of our locations in Allen, Anna, Dallas, Frisco, or McKinney to schedule an appointment. We are dedicated to your overall health and well-being and are here to answer any questions you may have about radiofrequency ablation. As a multispecialty clinic, we strive to provide our patients with a wide range of services and solutions for all their needs. We understand how living with chronic pain can have an impact on your daily life, and we are here to help. To learn more about this procedure or discuss your symptoms with one of our pain management doctors, please give us a call today.