Radiofrequency Ablation in San Marcos, TX

Q: Is radiofrequency ablation an effective pain treatment?

Over 70% of patients experience significant pain relief after RFA. While the duration of relief varies, most patients enjoy pain relief for 6 to 12 months, with some experiencing relief for several years.

What is Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)?

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA), also known as rhizotomy, is a minimally invasive, safe, and effective procedure designed to relieve chronic pain. By using heat generated from an electrical current, RFA disrupts pain signals in targeted areas. This treatment is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing chronic back, neck, or joint pain that hasn't responded well to medications, physical therapy, or other interventions. Many patients who undergo RFA experience pain relief for anywhere from 6 to 12 months, with some achieving longer-lasting results.

What Does Radiofrequency Ablation Treat?

Radiofrequency ablation is effective in treating a variety of conditions, especially lower back and neck pain that has not responded to other treatments. It is also helpful in managing pain associated with degenerative joint diseases such as arthritis. If you are suffering from persistent pain in your back, neck, or joints, RFA may be an excellent treatment option.

If you're interested in learning more about how radiofrequency ablation can help manage your chronic pain, contact Greater Austin Pain Center in San Marcos to schedule an appointment.

What to Expect from Radiofrequency Ablation

If you're a good candidate for RFA, our pain specialists in San Marcos will provide specific instructions to help you prepare for the procedure. This may include fasting or adjusting medications, especially if you have diabetes, and arranging for someone to drive you home after your treatment.

During the procedure, a local anesthetic is used to numb the treatment area. A thin needle is then inserted into the skin, and under live X-ray guidance, the doctor pinpoints the exact area of pain. A microelectrode is inserted through the needle, delivering a safe electric current that heats the nerve tissue and reduces pain signals. This process is repeated as needed to ensure that the affected nerves are sufficiently treated.

Types of Radiofrequency Ablation Procedures

Continuous Radiofrequency Ablation

This technique involves gradually heating the microelectrode to disrupt the nerve's ability to transmit pain signals. The heat is maintained for about 90 to 120 seconds, with the overall procedure duration varying depending on the number of nerves being treated.

Pulsed Radiofrequency Ablation

This procedure uses brief, high-voltage currents that last less than half a second. The pulsed currents are applied until the nerve tissue is adequately disrupted, typically taking between two to eight minutes.

Woman at elevators in front of San Antonio Eye Specialists sign.

The Radiofrequency Ablation Process

Schedule an Appointment

Contact Greater Austin Pain Center in San Marcos to schedule your appointment and begin your journey toward pain relief.

Initial Evaluation

During your first visit, our pain specialists will take time to understand your chronic pain history and review previous treatments. This evaluation helps tailor a treatment plan that best suits your needs.

Receive Your RFA Treatment

Patients will receive a local anesthetic to numb the treatment area. The doctor will then insert a thin needle to deliver a small electric current to heat the nerve tissue and disrupt pain signals.

Short Recovery

While most patients can walk immediately after the procedure, it’s recommended that you avoid driving or engaging in strenuous activities for 24 hours. Once this period has passed, you can return to your regular activities.

Testimonials

"Dr. Jarzembeck is AMAZING. I HIGHLY recommend her for anyone suffering in pain. She goes above and beyond to make sure her patients pain has been dealt with."

Genia G.

"Everyone is so friendly and helpful, Dr. Bednar came to me and explained the procedure and answered my questions. Highly recommend!"

Maggie G.

"Dr. Julia is the best! The staff is professional and friendly to all. Best of all, Dr. Julia is finding solutions for my chronic pain! Never thought that it would be possible. It's a journey for me, but it seems like there is a solution."

Nancy M.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is radiofrequency ablation safe?

Yes, RFA is a low-risk, safe procedure. Serious complications such as infection or bleeding at the treatment site are rare.

What are the side effects of radiofrequency ablation?

Common side effects include mild bruising or soreness at the needle insertion site. These symptoms usually resolve within one or two days.

Is radiofrequency ablation an effective pain treatment?

Over 70% of patients who undergo radiofrequency ablation experience significant pain relief. While the duration of relief can vary, most patients enjoy freedom from pain for 6 to 12 months post-treatment, with some cases extending to years of relief.

How long does radiofrequency ablation take?

RFA procedures typically take around 30 minutes. The exact duration depends on the number and location of the nerves being treated, as well as the specific type of RFA performed.

What should I expect after radiofrequency ablation?

After the procedure, arrange for someone to drive you home. Avoid driving, operating heavy machinery, or engaging in strenuous physical activity for 24 hours. After this time, you can return to your normal daily routine.

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Patient Tools

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What is Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)?

What Does Radiofrequency Ablation Treat?

What to Expect from Radiofrequency Ablation

Types of Radiofrequency Ablation Procedures

Continuous Radiofrequency Ablation

Pulsed Radiofrequency Ablation

The Radiofrequency Ablation Process

Schedule an Appointment

Initial Evaluation

Receive Your RFA Treatment

Short Recovery

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

Is radiofrequency ablation safe?

What are the side effects of radiofrequency ablation?

Is radiofrequency ablation an effective pain treatment?

How long does radiofrequency ablation take?

What should I expect after radiofrequency ablation?

Treat Your Chronic Pain with Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) in San Marcos

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