Thoracic Radiofrequency Ablation Under Fluoroscopic Needle Guidance

Address chronic thoracic pain with advanced radiofrequency ablation therapy at CDL Rehabilitation.

What Thoracic Radiofrequency Ablation Under Fluoroscopic Needle Guidance Are

Thoracic radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to disrupt nerve function, providing pain relief in the thoracic spine by targeting specific nerves causing pain.

Treatment Description

This procedure uses a needle, guided by fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray), to deliver radiofrequency energy to the nerve in the thoracic spine. The heat from the radiofrequency energy effectively disables the nerve, preventing it from transmitting pain signals.

What It Includes

The treatment involves inserting a needle near the targeted nerve in the thoracic spine under fluoroscopic guidance, followed by the application of radiofrequency energy to create a lesion in the nerve. Sessions typically last 30-60 minutes.

Disorders treated

What Are Thoracic Radiofrequency Ablation Under Fluoroscopic Needle Guidance Used For?

Thoracic radiofrequency ablation is effective for treating conditions like thoracic radiculopathy, chronic upper back pain, herniated discs in the thoracic spine, spinal stenosis, and facet joint pain.

Thoracic Radiculopathy
Relieves pain caused by nerve root compression in the thoracic spine, often radiating to the chest or abdomen, by using radiofrequency to disrupt pain signals.
Thoracic Facet Joint Dysfunction
Reduces pain and inflammation caused by facet joint dysfunction in the thoracic spine, providing long-term relief.
Spinal Stenosis
Helps alleviate symptoms of thoracic spinal stenosis, such as pain, numbness, and weakness, by reducing nerve compression.
Post-Surgical Pain
Provides pain relief following thoracic spine surgery by targeting areas of inflammation and nerve irritation.
Rib Pain
Reduces pain from inflammation or irritation in the rib joints or intercostal nerves, often caused by injury or muscle strain in the thoracic area.
Whiplash Injuries
Relieves pain from upper back and neck injuries caused by whiplash by targeting nerve irritation or facet joint dysfunction in the thoracic spine.

Consequences of not treating disorders

Persistent Upper Back Pain
Without thoracic radiofrequency ablation, chronic upper back pain caused by facet joint dysfunction may persist and worsen.
Limited Mobility
Lack of treatment can result in stiffness and restricted movement in the thoracic spine, hindering daily tasks and physical activities.
Increased Nerve Irritation
Untreated joint issues can lead to irritation of nearby nerves, potentially causing radiating pain or discomfort in the chest or abdomen.
Prolonged Inflammation
Failure to manage joint inflammation can exacerbate pain and delay the healing process.
Risk of Chronic Joint Degeneration
Without intervention, joint dysfunction can progress to chronic conditions, requiring more invasive procedures like surgery in the future.