Radiofrequency Ablation RFA

Radiofrequency Ablation, also known as Facet Rhizotomy and Medial Branch Neurotomy, utilizes a radiofrequency probe to electrochemically denervate the medial branches, thus rendering the facet joints pain free. The medial branches do in fact re-innervate over time to a mild degree, whereby the RFA can be done again.

How does Radiofrequency Ablation Work?

First the medial branch is localized using sensory / motor stimulation and imaging. Next, the targeted area is locally anesthetized for comfort. Finally, the RFA device generates a radial sphere of "electrical frequency" at 80 degrees for 90 seconds at the tip of the probe over each Medial Branch Block. Applying the radiofrequency energy to the facet joint nerve involves placing an insulated wire near the nerve tissue.

Advantages of Radiofrequency Ablation

RFA is a semi-permanent procedure for facet joint pain in the lower back. No steroid is necessary for this procedure. It is useful for axial low back pain and neck pain from degenerative spine conditions even after surgery. Little risk to the patient if it is done properly by a board certified physiatrist. It is important to note that this procedure is not recommended for patients suffering from neuropathic radicular pain.

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Stories about our Radiofrequency Ablation RFA Services

- Pain Management
Interventional Procedure
“Dr. Safman is caring and communicates well. The discomfort from the spinal injection is very minor. She makes it an easy procedure.”

Provider: Kimberly Safman MD
- Pain Management
Pain Management
“Dr. Safman and her team sincerely care about helping you with your orthopedic needs. Dr. Safman's knowledge for care is more focused than anyone else I have had contact with over my years of orthopedic needs.”

Provider: Kimberly Safman MD
- Spine
Spinal Injections Epidural/Facet
“I think Dr. Safman is an excellent clinician. I totally trust her sticking long needles into me. She is good at explaining what she is doing and at asking how you are doing during the course of the treatment.”

Provider: Kimberly Safman MD
- Pain Management
Pain Management
“Lindsay always shows a lot of insight when reviewing my needs. She's courteous, professional and still has the personal touch. She feels like a friend as well as a physician assistant.”

Provider: Lindsay Baumhefner PA-C
- Pain Management
Spinal Injections Epidural/Facet
“Professional, efficient, willingness to answers questions, great followup after procedure was done.”

Provider: Kimberly Safman MD
- Spine
Spinal Injections Epidural/Facet
“She listens to my needs and cares about my life. I would Highly recommend her to anyone else who needs pain management. She's Great”

Provider: Balaji S Charlu MD