What is rfa in medical terms

Depending on the area treated, a superficial burning pain with hypersensitivity, similar to a sunburn feeling may be experienced. Sometimes a slight numbness of the skin over the same area may also be experienced. Pain relief after RFA is typically experienced 1 to 3 weeks after the injection. Patients may engage in regular activities but should let pain levels be their guide for the first few days. Since many patients have been de-conditioned over many months or years as a result of their pain, physicians might prescribe a guided physical therapy regimen to allow them to increase their strength and activity tolerance in a safe manner.

The radiofrequency ablation treatment is a relatively safe and low-risk procedure. It is advised to discuss the potential risk of developing any adverse reactions or side effects of RFA with a doctor prior to this treatment. Hip Joint Injections for Pain Relief. RFA is usually performed either laparoscopically through a series of small holes in the abdomen. It can also be done through an open procedure.

Radiofrequency Ablation RFA Radiofrequency ablation RFA is a minimally invasive treatment, one of several types of ablation therapy, where surgery is not a good option. CT scan showing radiofrequency ablation of a liver lesion RFA is used to treat numerous tumors including those in the liver, bone, kidney, and lung.

Clinical Team Stanley J. New medical centres. New dental clinics. Radiofrequency ablation RFA is a minimally invasive procedure performed under local anaesthetic, which uses the application of heat to minimise or completely stop pain transmission.

The nerve causing the pain is burned, or ablated, using an electrical current to target a specific area. This ablation stops the transmission of nerve signals to the brain, thus providing relief.

Patients who suffer from chronic pain, or conditions such as arthritis and spondylosis, may benefit from immediate pain relief with little to no recovery time. RFA is performed as a day case so there is no need for overnight hospital stay. It can provide relief to those with neck, back, knee, pelvic, and nerve pain.

The procedure is performed while the patient is awake, as a local anaesthetic is given to numb the particular area where treatment will be applied. A fluoroscope an imaging technique that allows the doctor to obtain real-time X-ray images during the procedure is used to help insertion of a needle into the target area. The fluoroscope allows the doctor to make sure the needle reaches the correct location.

When the needle is in the right place, a radiofrequency electrical current is passed through the needle, which is hollow inside, burning the required area. The burn is very small and the needle allows the doctor to be accurate. This current destroys the part of the nerve which produces pain signals. Multiple burns can be made in order to fully destroy the nerve.

After the procedure is finished, patients can return home, but they should make arrangements for someone to escort them. Pain may be felt after the procedure, usually for around two weeks.