Radiofrequency neurotomy

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How you prepare

By Mayo Clinic staff

To determine if you're a good candidate for radiofrequency neurotomy, your doctor may perform a test to see if the nerves commonly targeted by the procedure are the same nerves responsible for your pain.

This diagnostic test involves injecting a small amount of numbing medication into the precise spots where the radiofrequency needles will go. If your pain significantly lessens, radiofrequency treatment at those spots may help you.

Prior to the actual radiofrequency neurotomy procedure, you should:

  • Tell your doctor if you're taking blood thinners
  • Arrange for someone to drive you home
  • Follow any eating or drinking restrictions outlined by your doctor
  • Take your regular medicines as directed by your surgeon
What you can expect Risks
References
  1. Braun EB, et al. Pain management in the head and neck patient: Chronic pain. In: Flint PW, et al. Cummings Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Mosby Elsevier; 2010. http://www.mdconsult.com/books/about.do?about=true&eid=4-u1.0-B978-0-323-05283-2..X0001-8--TOP&isbn=978-0-323-05283-2&uniqId=230100505-57. Accessed Nov. 23, 2011.
  2. Speldewinde GC. Outcomes of percutaneous zygapophysial and sacroiliac joint neurotomy in a community setting. Pain Medicine. 2011;12:209.
  3. Chou R. Subacute and chronic low back pain: Nonsurgical interventional treatment. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Nov. 23, 2011.
  4. Biondi DM, et al. Cervicogenic headache. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Nov. 23, 2011.
  5. Barbara Woodward Lips Patient Education Center. Radiofrequency lesioning. Rochester, Minn.: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; 2010.
MY00947 Jan. 24, 2012

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