(Radiofrequency Ablation) RFA Procedure in Dubai
What is Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)?
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA), or radiofrequency neurotomy, utilizes radio waves to produce a precisely controlled current. This current is then directed to heat a specific area of nerve tissue, inducing a controlled thermal lesion.
The nerve’s capability to transmit pain signals to the brain is impeded by carefully raising the temperature in this targeted region. As a result, RFA offers a viable method for achieving enduring relief from pain.
Particularly effective for chronic pain sufferers, RFA procedure in Dubai offers a viable solution, notably for conditions affecting the lower back, neck, and arthritic joints.
Radiofrequency Ablation or RFA procedure in Dubai
In the Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) procedure, aimed at alleviating nerve-related pain, a series of steps are followed, ensuring precision and effectiveness:
- Preparation and Positioning: The patient is face-down on a procedure table. If sedation is required, an IV line is inserted to administer relaxation medication while maintaining the patient’s consciousness.
- Skin Preparation: Thorough skin cleaning over the targeted treatment area, whether the neck, mid-back or lower back, is conducted to reduce infection risks.
- Numbing the Area: The physician administers a local anesthetic to the specified injection site, ensuring minimal discomfort during the procedure.
- Guided Needle Placement: Utilizing X-ray guidance (fluoroscopy), the physician precisely directs the RFA needle toward either the medial or lateral branch nerves.
- Identifying Target Nerves: The medial branch nerves, responsible for transmitting pain from facet joints, or the lateral branch nerves, carrying pain signals from sacroiliac joints, are targeted based on the patient’s condition.
- Electrode Insertion and Stimulation: With the needle accurately positioned, an active electrode is inserted, allowing a controlled amount of electrical current to be passed near the target nerve. This step may briefly induce familiar painful sensations in the patient.
- Creating the Heat Lesion: Once the target nerve is confirmed, the preferred ablation method (conventional, pulsed, or water-cooled radiofrequency) generates a heat lesion on the nerve, disrupting its ability to transmit pain signals.
- Repeat Process if Necessary: The procedure may be repeated for additional nerves, depending on the extent of the patient’s condition.
- Duration and Post-Procedure Care: Typically lasting between 30 to 90 minutes, patients are advised to arrange for transportation home following the procedure, ensuring their safety and comfort.
This step-by-step approach ensures a comprehensive and personalized treatment experience, effectively addressing chronic pain conditions and enhancing patients’ overall well-being.
Radiofrequency Ablation Recovery
Following Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA), patients are monitored in a recovery room for 15 minutes to an hour, especially if sedation is administered, with continuous vital signs monitoring. Patients may experience a sunburn-like sensation or slight numbness in the treated area.
For the first day or two post-RFA, patients are advised:
- Use ice packs intermittently for 15 to 20 minutes to numb the pain and reduce swelling, with at least a two-hour break between applications. Heat packs are generally not recommended.
- Opt for warm showers instead of baths for 1 to 2 days after the procedure.
- Patients usually experience pain relief within 1 to 3 weeks following the injection. It’s advisable to take several days of rest before gradually returning to regular activities. During this period, it’s essential to gauge pain levels, allowing them to determine the extent of activity.
- Patients may gradually return to regular activities, with physicians potentially prescribing guided physical therapy to safely improve strength and activity tolerance.
This post-procedure care ensures optimal recovery and pain management for patients undergoing RFA.
Advantages of Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
- Pain relief.
- Non-surgical procedure.
- Minimal to no recovery time required.
- Reduced dependence on pain medications.
- Improved functionality.
- Return to regular activities within a day or two of rest.
Side Effects and Risks of RFA
- Temporary pain or burning sensation at the treatment site, like pre-procedure pain, lasting up to a week or two.
- Temporary numbness at the needle insertion site.
- Shallow risk of complications.
- Rare instances of permanent nerve damage or worsened pain.
- Uncommon complications include infection and bleeding at the needle insertion site.
If you’re seeking for RFA procedure in Dubai, Dr. Miguel Ley Nacher may be your go-to specialist.
With a wealth of experience and a commitment to delivering top-notch care, Dr. Miguel provides compassionate and effective Radiofrequency Ablation services.
Feel free to contact Dr. Miguel Ley Nacher today to schedule your consultation and embark on the journey toward alleviating your pain and enhancing your overall well-being.
Book an appointment now.
