Can RFA cause nerve damage?

In general, the risks of Radiofrequency Ablation are low and complications are rare. Infrequently, side effects such as bleeding, infection, worsening of pain symptoms, discomfort at the point of injection, and motor nerve damage may occur following an RFA procedure.

Is RFA bad?

Repeat the procedure. In some cases, the nerves targeted in the procedure may grow back, so your pain will return. If the radiofrequency ablation relieved your pain temporarily, but then returned after a few months, it may be beneficial to repeat the procedure.

How long does it take to recover from RFA?

Pain relief after RFA is typically experienced 1 to 3 weeks after the injection. It is advised to rest for several days before returning to normal activities. Patients may engage in regular activities but should let pain levels be their guide for the first few days.

Is RFA FDA approved?

In July 2016, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a radiofrequency ablation device that targets the basivertebral nerve for the treatment of chronic low back pain. Low back pain has a lifetime prevalence of up to 84\%, with an estimated 23\% of cases characterized as chronic.

How often can RFA be repeated?

If the patient’s level of relief is only minimal after undergoing radiofrequency ablation treatment, then it can be repeated two or three weeks later.

Do nerves grow back after a radiofrequency ablation?

It is possible the nerve will regrow through the burned lesion that was created by radiofrequency ablation. If the nerve regrows, it is usually 6-12 months after the procedure. Radiofrequency ablation is 70-80\% effective in people who have successful nerve blocks. The procedure can be repeated if needed.

What can go wrong with RFA?

Radiofrequency ablation procedure-related risks. Damage to surrounding blood vessels and nerves during needle insertion resulting in excessive bleeding and/or irreversible neurologic damage causing long-term numbness and tingling. Heat damage to structures adjacent to the target nerve.

What is next step if radiofrequency ablation doesn’t work?

Radiofrequency is used only after conventional pain relief methods like medication and local nerve blocks have failed. If you have not found relief after using fulguration, you should contact a pain management specialist who can help you choose other options to treat your pain.

What can you not do after radiofrequency ablation?

You will have a few restrictions immediately following radiofrequency ablation: Do not drive or operate machinery for at least 24 hours after the procedure. You may resume your normal diet. Do not engage in any strenuous activity for the first 24 hours after the procedure.

What is intracept?

Intracept® is a minimally invasive procedure that targets the basivertebral nerve for the relief of chronic low back pain. Intracept® is an outpatient procedure, which does not involve an implant or change the structure of the spine.

Is intracept procedure FDA approved?

The Intracept Procedure is a minimally invasive, FDA-approved treatment that stops your chronic low back pain at the source: your nerves.

How successful is RFA?

Radiofrequency ablation is 70-80\% effective in people who have successful nerve blocks. The procedure can be repeated if needed.

What side effects may I have after radiofrequency ablation?

There are several potential side effects following a radiofrequency (ablation) procedure, including: Depending on the area treated, patients might develop a superficial burning pain with hypersensitivity, similar to a sunburn feeling, over the treated area that lasts for 1 – 2 weeks.

What can be treated with radiofrequency ablation treatment?

Radiofrequency ablation, also known as RFA, is a procedure used in the medical field to treat pain associated with different issues of the neck and lower back. This type of treatment is done by using a small heated device, which is attached to area where different nerves are present within with body. The device works to send a radiofrequency, heated signal to the nerve, in order to calm the nerve and produce pain relief.

What are the side effects of radiofrequency ablation?

A superficial burning sensation over the treated area,similar to a sunburn

What are the top problems fixed by radiofrequency ablation?

Whiplash