OUR SERVICES
Cervical Facet Radiofrequency Neurotomy
Advanced Relief for Chronic Neck Pain
If you suffer from persistent neck pain caused by arthritis or injury to the facet joints, you know how debilitating it can be. When conservative treatments like physical therapy or medication no longer provide the relief you need, Cervical Facet Radiofrequency Neurotomy (RFA) offers a scientifically proven, minimally invasive solution to manage chronic pain.
What is Cervical Facet Radiofrequency Neurotomy?
Cervical Facet Radiofrequency Neurotomy—often referred to as Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)—is a specialized procedure designed to "turn off" the nerves responsible for sending chronic pain signals from the facet joints to your brain. Using precise radiofrequency energy, our physicians create a small lesion (or burn) on the specific medial branch nerve responsible for your pain. By disrupting these nerve pathways, we can provide significant, long-term relief without the need for invasive surgery.
Conditions We Treat
This procedure is most effective for patients whose neck pain originates from the small facet joints that connect the vertebrae in the spine. We commonly recommend RFA for patients experiencing:
Facet Joint Arthritis:
Age-related degeneration and inflammation of the spine’s small joints.
Chronic Neck Pain:
Persistent pain that has failed to improve with conservative care, massage, or medication.
Post-Injury Pain:
Pain resulting from whiplash or other traumatic neck injuries.
Cervical Spondylosis:
Spinal wear and tear that leads to persistent joint discomfort.
How the Procedure Works
At New South Medical, we prioritize safety and accuracy. Because this treatment targets specific nerves, we follow a two-step process:
Diagnostic Medial Branch Blocks: Before the neurotomy, you will undergo a “test drive” of the procedure. We inject a local anesthetic near the suspected nerves to see if your pain is temporarily blocked. If you experience significant relief, we know we have identified the correct source of your pain.
The Neurotomy Procedure: Once confirmed, we use fluoroscopic (live X-ray) guidance to place a specialized needle at the target nerve. Radiofrequency energy is delivered to create a heat lesion, effectively preventing the nerve from transmitting pain signals to the brain.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does the pain relief last?
Unlike injections that provide temporary relief, RFA is intended for longer-term management. Patients often experience pain relief lasting from 6 to 12 months or longer. Because nerves can eventually regenerate, the procedure can be safely repeated if the pain returns.
Is the procedure painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. You may feel slight pressure during the needle placement, but most patients report minimal discomfort. We strive to make the experience as comfortable as possible.
What is the recovery time?
Recovery is rapid. Most patients can return to their normal daily activities within 24 to 48 hours. You may experience temporary soreness at the injection site, but this typically resolves quickly.
Why choose RFA over other treatments?
RFA is a highly targeted, minimally invasive alternative to surgery. It allows you to reduce or eliminate your reliance on oral pain medications and physical therapy, providing a direct, efficient path to restoring your mobility and daily function.