Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) Tulsa, OK
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RFA Procedure in Tulsa, OK
Memorial Pain Clinic offers advanced radiofrequency ablation treatments in Tulsa to alleviate chronic and severe pain and improve your quality of life. If you’re exploring options to manage persistent pain effectively, our clinic provides expert care and cutting-edge technology in a comfortable environment.
Radiofrequency ablation is a proven technique that targets and reduces pain signals, offering long-lasting relief without the need for invasive surgery. Contact Memorial Pain Clinic today to discover how our personalized approach can help you regain control and enjoy a pain-free lifestyle. Call us at 918-200-9944 today to schedule an appointment with us.
What Is Radiofrequency Ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure used to relieve chronic pain by targeting and interrupting the transmission of pain signals from specific nerves. It is commonly used to manage pain originating from the facet joints in the spine, which can occur due to conditions such as arthritis or injury.
The goal of radiofrequency ablation is to provide long-lasting pain relief by effectively “turning off” the targeted nerves. The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis and may involve the use of local anesthesia or mild sedation to minimize discomfort.
Radiofrequency ablation is considered a safe and effective treatment option for managing chronic pain, particularly in cases where conservative treatments such as medication or physical therapy have been ineffective. The duration of pain relief varies from person to person but can last from several months to a year or more in some cases. If pain returns, the procedure can be repeated as needed.
Radiofrequency Ablation vs Steroid Injection
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and steroid injections are both effective treatments for pain relief but work in different ways. RFA uses heat generated by radio waves to target and deactivate specific nerves that transmit pain signals, providing long-lasting relief, often for months to years.
In contrast, steroid injections deliver anti-inflammatory medication and a local anesthetic directly into the injection site, reducing inflammation and pain, but typically offer shorter-term relief lasting from weeks to a few months. While RFA is often used for chronic pain conditions, steroid injections are commonly employed for acute pain and inflammation.
Intracept Procedure vs Radiofrequency Ablation
The Intracept procedure also uses radiofrequency waves to target and alleviate pain, but it has a more specific source than general radiofrequency ablation. Intracept specifically targets chronic low back pain originating from the vertebral endplates.
It involves ablating the basivertebral nerve, which has been shown to contribute to chronic vertebrogenic pain. While RFA is versatile and can be applied to multiple pain sites, the Intracept procedure is specialized for treating chronic low back pain linked to vertebral endplates.
What Is Radiofrequency Ablation Used to Treat?
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is primarily used to treat chronic pain conditions that originate from the spine or other areas of the body. Some common conditions and areas where RFA may be used include:
- Facet joint pain
- Chronic back pain
- Neck pain
- Sciatica
- Peripheral nerve pain
- Joint pain
- Cancer pain
Radiofrequency Ablation Varicose Veins
Radiofrequency ablation for varicose veins involves using radiofrequency energy to heat and close off the affected veins. This minimally invasive procedure causes the problematic veins to collapse and be reabsorbed by the body, redirecting blood flow to healthier veins. RFA not only improves the appearance of varicose veins but also relieves associated pain and discomfort, promoting better vascular health and enhanced quality of life. Varicose veins do not always cause pain, but they can lead to discomfort and sometimes a tingling sensation.
Radiofrequency Ablation for Back Pain
Radiofrequency ablation for back pain involves using radio waves to generate heat and deactivate specific nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals in the spine. This minimally invasive procedure targets the nerves causing chronic pain, providing significant and long-lasting relief when pain medication does not. RFA is particularly effective for conditions such as facet joint pain, helping patients regain mobility and improve their quality of life.
Cervical Radiofrequency Ablation
RFA for cervical spine pain targets the nerves around the cervical facet joints and medial branch nerves. It provides significant and long-lasting pain relief from chronic neck pain. Patients also have improved mobility and overall quality of life from reduced discomfort and stiffness.
Cervical Radiofrequency Ablation Success Rate
In many clinical studies, radiofrequency ablation has a success rate of 70-80%. Most patients experience a notable reduction in their pain after the procedure. RFA generally provides much longer-lasting relief compared to pain medicine. While it is possible for the affected nerve to regrow, this can take anywhere from 6-12 months depending on the specific nerve.
Lumbar Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency ablation for lumbar spine pain uses radiofrequency energy to heat and disable the nerves responsible for sending pain signals from the lower back. This minimally invasive technique specifically targets the lumbar facet joints and lateral branch nerves, providing effective and enduring pain relief.
Lumbar Radiofrequency Ablation Success Rate
Generally, lumbar RFA has a success rate of 70-80%. It can provide pain relief for patients anywhere from 6 months to 2 years after the initial procedure. While it is possible for nerves to regrow, this is uncommon. Many patients have significant relief from their pain after RFA.
Thyroid Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency ablation can alleviate facial pain caused by thyroid nodules in the neck. This is done by using RF energy waves to generate heat which reduces the size of benign thyroid nodules. The procedure allows for shrinking of the nodules without the need for surgery. This can relieve symptoms like pain, difficulty swallowing, and cosmetic concerns.
Genicular Nerve Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency ablation in the knee uses radiofrequency energy to heat and deactivate the genicular nerves sending pain signals from the knee joint. Because it targets the genicular nerves, it provides significant relief from chronic knee pain.
Radiofrequency Ablation Procedure
During the radiofrequency ablation procedure, a specialized needle or probe is inserted into the target area under fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance. The needle delivers radiofrequency energy to the nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals. This energy heats up the nerve tissue, creating a lesion that disrupts the nerve’s ability to send pain signals to the brain.
Radiofrequency Ablation Side Effects
The side effects of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) are generally mild and temporary, but can include the following.
- Mild pain or discomfort at the treatment site
- Temporary swelling or bruising at the insertion site
- Short-term tingling, numbness, or muscle twitch
- Small risk of infection at the needle insertion site
- Minimal bleeding at the treatment site
- Rarely, a potential risk of nerve damage, leading to changes in sensation or motor function
Most patients experience relief from their pain with minimal complications, and serious side effects are uncommon.
How Long Does It Take for Nerve to Die After Radiofrequency Ablation?
After radiofrequency ablation (RFA), it typically takes about 1 to 4 weeks for the targeted nerve to gradually degenerate and stop transmitting pain signals. During this time, patients may experience a temporary increase in discomfort as the nerves react to the ablation process. As the nerves die off, pain relief becomes more pronounced and can last for months to years, allowing individuals to return to their normal activities.
Contact Memorial Pain Clinic for RFA in Tulsa, OK
Experience relief from chronic pain with radiofrequency ablation at Memorial Pain Clinic in Tulsa. Our expert team specializes in this minimally invasive procedure, using advanced technology to target and deactivate pain-causing nerves effectively. Whether you suffer from back pain, joint pain, or other chronic conditions, our personalized approach aims to improve your quality of life and restore mobility.
Contact Memorial Pain Clinic today to schedule a consultation and discover how radiofrequency ablation can provide lasting relief from your discomfort. Take the first step towards a pain-free future with us.
