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Radiofrequency Ablation in Pain Management

Selective destruction of pain transmission nerve fibres with high-frequency current.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon department. Book Appointment →

What is Radiofrequency Ablation in Pain Management?

Radiofrequency ablation is a method that selectively destroys pain-transmitting nerve fibres or modulates pain conduction with controlled heat (60 to 80 degrees Celsius) generated by high-frequency electric current.

Two main types: conventional RF (continuous current, thermal damage) and pulsed RF (interrupted current, no heat damage, modulation effect).

Used in lumbar and cervical facet pain, sacroiliac joint pain, occipital neuralgia, trigeminal neuralgia and chronic neuropathic pain; effect lasts six to twelve months.

Symptoms

Chronic axial pain (low back, neck) lasting longer than three months
Pain that increases with movement and decreases at rest (facet origin)
Failure of conservative treatment (medication, physiotherapy)
Successful diagnostic block (greater than 50 percent pain reduction)
Pain restricting daily life
Limitation of physical activity

Risk Factors

Coagulation disorder and anticoagulant use
Local infection and skin lesion at injection site
Pregnancy
Severe spine deformity and instability
Nerve root pathology (precise differentiation required)
Patient psychological intolerance and uncooperativeness

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Pain specialist evaluation in pain longer than three months
  • Diagnostic block (medial branch block) confirmation before RFA
  • Imaging (MR, CT) and electrodiagnostic testing should be performed
  • Multidisciplinary evaluation in chronic disease

Treatment Methods

01
Diagnostic block (1 to 2 mL local anaesthetic with positive response)
02
RFA application under fluoroscopic or ultrasonographic guidance
03
Conventional RF (80 degrees Celsius, 60 to 90 seconds)
04
Pulsed RF (42 degrees Celsius, 120 seconds, 2 cycles)
05
Ambulatory procedure with local anaesthesia
06
Combination with physical therapy and analgesic medication

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.