Radiofrequency ablation is emerging as a significant advancement in the treatment of chronic back pain. This minimally invasive procedure utilizes radiofrequency energy to disrupt pain signals being sent to the brain from the spine. Often referred to as rhizotomy or neurotomy, it is specifically employed to alleviate pain in the neck, back, and spine.
A key aspect of this procedure is the targeting of medial branch nerves, responsible for carrying pain signals in the facet joints of the spine, which extend from the neck to the low back. This targeting is achieved through the use of heat, effectively damaging these nerves and interrupting the transmission of pain signals.
In addition to traditional approaches, new techniques like the “Intracept” procedure, offered at UC San Diego Health, are being adopted. Intracept is an outpatient procedure that focuses on nerves located in the vertebrae, providing a novel option for those suffering from chronic low back pain (CLBP).
The procedure is guided by X-rays, allowing spine specialists to accurately pinpoint the spinal joint causing pain. This precision is crucial for the effectiveness of the treatment. Beyond radiofrequency ablation, other advanced procedures are also being utilized, such as sacroiliac radiofrequency nerve ablation, neural field stimulator implantation for non-spine painful conditions, intrathecal drug delivery implantation, and ablation of other peripheral sensory nerves.
One specific type of radiofrequency ablation is the basivertebral nerve ablation, or Intracept procedure. This outpatient, minimally invasive method involves accessing the vertebral body with fluoroscopic (x-ray) guidance through a small skin incision. A curved cannula is introduced to target the trunk of the basivertebral nerve effectively.
The benefits of radiofrequency ablation extend to various spinal conditions, including herniated discs. This condition, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, involves a fragment of the disc protruding into the spinal canal, often causing severe pain. Targeting the basivertebral nerve in the vertebral body has shown promising results in providing long-term pain relief.
In summary, radiofrequency ablation and its variants like the Intracept procedure represent a leap forward in treating chronic back pain, offering a less invasive yet effective option for patients.
For more detailed information, visit the following sources:
UT Southwestern Medical Center,
University of Texas Health Science Center,
University of Michigan Back & Pain Center,
UC San Diego Health,
Wexner Medical Center,
University of Kentucky HealthCare.
