Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency ablation is a nonsurgical method of disabling a painful nerve, so it’s an effective solution for many neuropathic problems if initial treatments don’t work. At Gorham Medical, PC, the confident team of skilled pain management professionals offers radiofrequency ablation and other leading-edge interventional pain management treatments in their Colorado Springs and Cripple Creek, Colorado offices. Book your appointment online or call the office nearest you to learn more. 

What is radiofrequency ablation?

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an interventional pain management treatment that uses radiofrequency energy to heat and disable specific nerves. The treatment involves creating a heat lesion on the nerve that disconnects it and stops pain signals.
 

What kinds of pain does radiofrequency ablation treat?

 Many types of chronic pain are treated with radiofrequency ablation, such as:

• Sacroiliac (SI) joint pain at the bottom of the spine
• Facet joint pain in the spine
• Neck pain
• Knee pain
• Facial pain

RFA may also treat other types of pain. The Gorman Medical, PC, team performs a detailed medical evaluation to determine whether your pain responds to it. 

Who is a good candidate for radiofrequency ablation?

RFA is a minimally invasive treatment, so it’s not the first-line approach for chronic pain. But, if your nerve-related pain doesn’t respond to more conservative treatments like physical therapy, chiropractic care, and medication management after about six months, radiofrequency ablation might be the right choice.

The team performs a diagnostic nerve block to verify whether RFA can help you. If that injection eases your pain, RFA can give you similar results with a longer-lasting effect.

What is the radiofrequency ablation process like?

RFA is an office-based procedure. The team administers a local anesthetic in the treatment area, and you may receive a mild sedative. You are awake but likely a bit drowsy during the procedure.

The team uses advanced imaging to guide a thin hollow needle to the treatment area. You receive a numbing medicine through the needle, and the team then inserts a tiny electrode in the needle. They use a special machine to send radiofrequency waves into the electrode, which burns the targeted nerves. 

The procedure doesn’t damage the other healthy nerves in the area. 

How effective is radiofrequency ablation? 

RFA has an excellent success rate, providing significant pain relief for at least 7 out of every 10 people who have the procedure. By combining RFA with other treatment modalities, you can get the best results. The team designs a well-rounded treatment plan prepared for your needs. 

Radiofrequency ablation can provide powerful pain relief lasting anywhere from months to a couple of years. To learn more about this innovative outpatient treatment, call the Gorman Medical, PC team or book your consultation using the online feature now.