Radiofrequncy Lesioning : Lumbar Spine
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What is it:
Radiofrequency (RF) Lesioning is a procedure using electrical impulses to destroy the nerves which are causing pain in the lower back. Usually the procedure can last for 9 to 12 months, until the nerves grow back (however this may be variable).
Who Benefits:
Patients with low back pain which is attributed to osteoarthritis in the joints of the spine (facet joint osteoarthritis)
Purpose:
The purpose o fthe procedure is primarily two fold : (1) to relieve pain (2) to restire function
How is it Done:
You will be brought to the pre-operative unit at the Stanford Ambulatory Surgery Center - where a nurse and a physician will interview and examine you. An anesthesiologist will also interveiw you and place an IV. You will be kept comfortable during the procedure - but will need to remain alert and oriented during key points.
You will be brought to the ASC treatment room where you will be instucted to roll over into your front. The physician will clean your back/spine area with sterile cleaning solution. after numbing your skin, the probes will be placed under X-Ray guidance.
Next, the physician will ask you if you feel any pain/tingling either in your back or legs. Please be alert during this portion of the procedure. The physicians are ensuring that the probes are positioned correctly and safely.
The final step will be the actual lesioning of the nerves. This will be painless as the nerves have been numbed with local anesthetic after the testing phase.
After the Procedure:
You may feel some soreness for the next several days. Generally , ice packs applied through a towel for 5-10 minutes every 6 hours, along with tylenol should be well tolerated- but please speak to your physician to ensure that these are appropriate for you.
Post
Procedure Instructions for Spinal Injections
Back to List of Procedures Pre-procedure Instructions
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This document was last modified:
Friday, 05-Aug-2005 12:28:51 PDT
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