Surgical Procedures

Radiofrequency Ablation/Radiofrequency Neurotomy

This is a procedure that can be done to stop the transmission of pain from facet or sacroiliac joints. You will have medial branch blocks first to diagnose the specific level(s) where the problem is located. After confirming the level where the pathology is located, you can then have a radiofrequency procedure to provide a prolonged period of pain relief. A section of the nerves carrying pain messages from the joint(s) is destroyed, which blocks the pain message being transmitted to the spinal cord and brain.

This procedure is not permanent, but can provide pain relief for a prolonged period. It can be repeated if the pain returns. It is a day procedure under sedation and under x-ray guidance.