Lumber Radiofrequency Ablation
What do I need to know about lumbar radiofrequency ablation?
Lumbar
radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a procedure used to treat facet joint pain in
your lower back. Facet joints are found at the back of each vertebra. A needle electrode is
used to send electrical currents to the nerves in your facet joint.
How do I prepare for lumbar RFA?
Your
healthcare provider will talk to you about how to prepare for this procedure. He will tell you what medicines to take or
not take on the day of your procedure.
What will happen during lumbar RFA?
- You will lie on your stomach. You will be given local anesthesia to numb the area
of your back where the needle electrode will be inserted. You may be given
a sedative to help keep you relaxed.
- Your healthcare provider may
touch the affected nerve to make sure the needle electrode is in the right
place. You will feel tingling or pressure when he does this.
- He may need to apply heat to
more than one nerve. He will remove the needle electrode and apply a
bandage over the area.
What are the risks of lumbar RFA?
You
may have pain, numbness, tingling, or burning in the area where the lumbar RFA was done. These normally go away within 6 weeks. The needle
electrode may injure your spinal nerves. This may cause permanent leg weakness
or nerve pain.
Care Agreement
You have
the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare
providers to decide what care you want to receive.
Further information
Always
consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this
page applies to your personal circumstances.
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