Radio Frequency Ablation

Radiofrequency is latest, safest & very effective method available to deal with many chronic pain conditions Radiofrequency (RF) is a neurolytic technique that uses heat to produce controlled tissue destruction (thermocoagulation) and thus reduce pain by modulating pain transmission, without causing clinical signs of nerve damage. Pain relief can last for long period before the procedure has to be repeated. RF is classified as a percutaneous minimal invasive procedure for patients whose pain does not respond to appropriate medical and physical therapy. During the procedure, an insulated needle is placed in the vicinity of the nerve to be lesioned. The needle position is checked, typically using multiple fluoroscopic X-ray views and by testing motor and sensory nerve stimulation. Once the correct position has been established, a grounded electrode is passed through the insulated needle to the tip. A current is then passed through the electrode, which heats up the surrounding tissue (because of the resistance produced by the body) and causes a lesion around the tip. There are two types of RF currently in use.