Cooled Radiofrequency Treatment
Cooled radiofrequency, also known as radiofrequency lesioning or RF lesioning, is a minimally-invasive procedure used in the treatment of chronic pain.
RF lesioning uses radiofrequency energy to disable the sensory nerves that cause the pain. Deactivating the pain-causing nerves may provide lasting relief from chronic pain. The procedure is performed by a pain specialist at a Tennova Comprehensive Pain Treatment Center.
What is the procedure like?
First, you will receive a local anesthetic in the area to be treated. Next, the physician will use an X-ray to guide a small insulated needle into the 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 located, the RF lesioning treatment will begin.
During treatment, an RF generator transmits a small radiofrequency current through the insulated needle, to disrupt the specific nerve that is sending pain signals to your brain. More than one area may need to be treated to achieve optimal pain relief.
How long does the procedure take?
RF lesioning procedures typically last from 15 to 45 minutes.
Is the procedure painful?
Unlike surgery, there is no incision. A local anesthetic is used before the procedure to reduce any discomfort during treatment. After the procedure, you may experience some discomfort at the treatment site. However, this discomfort can be treated with medication during your recovery time. Most people can return to work one or two days after the procedure.
Am I a candidate for radiofrequency lesioning?
RF lesioning is designed to help people who suffer from chronic pain. It is something that should be discussed with your physicians, in order to determine if the procedure is right for you and to get a referral to the Pain Treatment Clinic. Your physician may use nerve blocks to see if you might respond to RF lesioning treatment.
How long does pain relief last after radiofrequency lesioning?
RF lesioning may provide the pain relief you need to allow you to resume your daily activities. Pain relief usually lasts for 3-24 months, although results vary depending on the individual. On occasion, a person's body may regenerate the nerve or nerves responsible for sending pain signals to your brain. If this occurs, RF lesioning treatment can be performed again.
Are there any risks associated with radiofrequency lesioning?
There are inherent risks in the use of all prescription medical devices. Please be sure to ask your physician about indications, cautions, warnings, risks and other relevant information related to RF lesioning.
What do I do after the procedure?
You may be groggy from the sedative used during the procedure; therefore, we do require a responsible adult to drive you home afterwards. After the procedure, patients will normally be sore at the treatment site. Your physician may recommend cold packs or analgesics to help ease this soreness. You should expect to feel some pain relief within 1-2 weeks. We recommend that you rest, avoid sitting and driving for long periods of time in the first week of your recovery. Your doctor may also prescribe a brace and other methods, such as physical therapy, that should be followed to prevent injury.
To learn more about RF lesioning, speak with your doctor.