Radiofrequency Neurotomy (Endoscopic Method)

This procedure uses heat from radio waves to treat painful facet joints in your lower back. It eases pain that isn't helped by medications or physical therapy.

Preparation

To begin, you lie on your stomach. You may be given medicine to relax you. We numb the skin and tissue of your lower back. Next, we guide a tube called a "cannula" to your spine. A video x-ray device called a "fluoroscope" helps guide the tube to the medial branch nerves. These tiny nerves carry pain signals from your facet joints to your brain.

Treating the nerves

Now, we send a camera called an endoscope through the cannula and down to these nerves. This gives us a clear view of the nerves. Then, we push an electrode through a channel in the endoscope. We use it to heat the nerves with radio waves. Heating them stops them from carrying pain signals. We may need to treat several nerves.

End of procedure

When it's done, you get a small bandage on your skin. You're watched in a recovery room for a brief time. Then, you can go home. You may feel sore, and you may still have back pain. But you'll gradually feel pain relief. This can take several weeks.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.