Radiofrequency Lesioning (RFL)
The premier choice for RFL treatment in New Hampshire.
Radiofrequency Lesioning (RFL), also known as Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA), is an advanced, minimally invasive treatment used to manage and alleviate chronic pain. This innovative procedure utilizes radiofrequency energy to target and disrupt specific nerve fibers responsible for transmitting pain signals, providing long-lasting relief for patients suffering from various chronic pain conditions.
How Does Radiofrequency Lesioning Work?
RFL involves the use of a specialized needle, which is carefully inserted near the affected nerve under the guidance of imaging techniques such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound. Once accurately positioned, a small electric current is passed through the needle to generate heat. This heat creates a controlled lesion on the nerve, interrupting its ability to send pain signals to the brain. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, typically under local anesthesia, ensuring minimal discomfort for the patient.
![Cardiologist,Use,Tubes,And,Ultrasound,For,Radiofrequency,Catheter,Ablation. Image of a doctor performing radiofrequency lesioning on someone with knee pain](https://painmd.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/RFL-treatment-scaled.jpg)
RFL is a versatile treatment option that can effectively manage pain associated with a variety of conditions. Some of the common conditions treated with RFL include:
Chronic Back Pain
Chronic back pain is a prevalent issue that can severely impact an individual’s quality of life. Often resulting from degenerative disc disease or facet joint arthritis, this type of pain can be persistent and debilitating. Radiofrequency Lesioning (RFL) helps manage chronic back pain by targeting the nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals from the affected discs or joints. By creating a lesion on these nerves, RFL effectively disrupts the pain pathway, providing significant and long-lasting relief. This treatment can be particularly beneficial for patients who have not responded well to other conservative therapies.
Neck Pain
Neck pain can arise from various conditions, including cervical facet joint arthritis and whiplash injuries. These conditions can cause chronic pain and stiffness, making daily activities challenging. RFL offers an effective solution by targeting the nerves in the cervical spine that are responsible for pain transmission. The procedure involves applying radiofrequency energy to these nerves, creating a lesion that blocks pain signals. Patients often experience improved mobility and a reduction in pain, allowing them to return to their normal activities with greater comfort.
Arthritis
Arthritis, including osteoarthritis, can affect various joints in the body, including the spine, hips, and knees. This condition causes inflammation and pain in the joints, which can be severe and persistent. RFL is a valuable treatment option for arthritis pain, as it targets the specific nerves that carry pain signals from the affected joints. By disrupting these signals, RFL can significantly reduce pain and improve joint function. This allows patients to engage in physical activities with less discomfort and enhances their overall quality of life.
Sacroiliac Joint Pain
The sacroiliac (SI) joint connects the lower spine to the pelvis and can be a source of chronic pain due to inflammation or dysfunction. Sacroiliac joint pain can radiate to the lower back, buttocks, and legs, making movement difficult. RFL can effectively manage SI joint pain by targeting the nerves that transmit pain signals from the joint. The procedure creates a lesion on these nerves, preventing them from sending pain messages to the brain. This results in significant pain relief and improved mobility, allowing patients to perform daily activities with greater ease.
Trigeminal Neuralgia
Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve in the face, causing intense, sharp facial pain. This condition can be triggered by simple activities such as eating, speaking, or touching the face. RFL offers a promising treatment option for trigeminal neuralgia by targeting the specific branches of the trigeminal nerve responsible for pain. The radiofrequency energy creates a lesion on the nerve, disrupting the pain signals and providing relief. Patients often experience a significant reduction in facial pain, improving their ability to perform everyday tasks without discomfort.
Peripheral Nerve Pain
Peripheral nerve pain, or neuropathic pain, results from nerve damage or irritation in various parts of the body. This type of pain can be caused by conditions such as diabetes, shingles, or nerve injuries. RFL is an effective treatment for peripheral nerve pain as it targets the affected nerves and disrupts the transmission of pain signals. By creating a lesion on the damaged or irritated nerves, RFL can significantly reduce pain and improve the patient’s quality of life. This treatment can be particularly beneficial for patients who have not found relief from other pain management strategies.