Several individuals stumble with conditions like pain as they are nervous about going under a knife. As a result, their wellness continues to deteriorate daily, making it hard even to carry out simple activities. Thanks to technology, treatments for back, neck, chronic venous insufficiency, and tumors are now minimally invasive. Today, the rate at which people embrace Frisco radiofrequency ablation treatment is surging due to its minimally invasive nature and effectiveness. During your appointment with an RFA specialist, you should ask questions that might be stressing you. Let’s look at some commonly asked questions about radiofrequency ablation.
Which Conditions Are Treatable by Radiofrequency Ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation treatment mainly aids individuals struggling with chronic back and neck pain, whiplash, and pain after post-spinal surgery. On the other hand, healthcare providers can recommend this treatment for patients with lumbar facet, dorsal root ganglion pain, cervical facet pain, and sphenopalatine ganglion pain. Radiofrequency ablation is thus a multipurpose treatment you can consider for several complications. You should consult your healthcare provider to confirm whether radiofrequency ablation suits you.
How Should I Prepare for Radiofrequency Ablation?
Your specialist will offer a guide once you get closer to your treatment. Some essential information you should tell your provider includes if you are pregnant, alcoholic, smoking, allergic, or have a tolerance to some form of medication. Ensure you inform your specialist if you take any medication, such as over-the-counter medications, blood thinners, aspirin, or ibuprofen. You should continue taking medication unless your provider instructs you to stop taking these medications.
How Is the Radiofrequency Ablation Done?
This treatment minimizes pain signals by intruding on the pain-producing nerve. The process consists of inserting a small insulated needle near the painful nerves using a live video X-ray as guidance. Usually, the shaft of the small needle is covered in secured insulation to ensure electric current only targets the appropriate nerves. Your doctor will then inject a local anesthetic responsible for numbing the region. The radiofrequency conductor is responsible for heating the needle’s point for 90 seconds to damage the nerve.
What Are the Side Effects of Radiofrequency Ablation?
This procedure has proved to be secure and effective in addressing chronic pain. However, like other minimally invasive options, RFA has some side effects. Potential side effects of this treatment include slight bruising, discomfort, or swelling at the injection region. Furthermore, some patients’ pain may worsen, and the nerve may become permanently damaged. Fortunately, these side effects usually go away after a few days, and the patient can return to normal life.
Is Radiofrequency Ablation Expensive?
The cost of this treatment may vary depending on factors such as the severity and type of your condition and the location of the institution offering it. The cost may range from $2618 to $5267 at MDsave. Fortunately, RFA is covered by insurance; thus, it can save you some extra money. However, you should communicate with your provider before the treatment to learn all the requirements and the payment procedure to ensure you understand the treatment plan.
The radiofrequency ablation procedure is a minimally invasive treatment involving the movement of energy to damage tissues that might be causing pain. Doctors mainly recommend this procedure if other options, such as physical therapy and pain medications, are ineffective.
The treatment is, however, not effective for some patients. Therefore, you should talk with a vein specialist to confirm your eligibility for this treatment. If you are eligible, your doctor will develop a treatment plan that you should adhere to. If done correctly, you will see the outcome after some weeks and can return to your daily activities.