Radio frequency neurotomy works by means of radio waves (heat) that are sent through a needle to disrupt small sensory nerve endings of your medial branch nerves and interrupt pain signals from the facet joint(s). This procedure is considered quite effective and typically patients report pain relief between 6-24 months after the procedure. It can take between 1-4 weeks for the results to be fully noticed. The nerve endings do regenerate; therefore the return of familiar pain is likely. Fortunately, the procedure may be repeated if necessary and appropriate. You should recall that you have had the “test injections” called Medial Branch Blocks that determined that the radio frequency neurotomy is an appropriate treatment for this pain complaint.
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