Cervical Facet Radiofrequency Neurotomy in Cincinnati - APSI Wellness
Learn about cervical facet radiofrequency neurotomy for chronic neck pain relief. Expert treatment at APSI Wellness in Cincinnati.
Cervical Facet Radiofrequency Neurotomy — Cervical facet radiofrequency neurotomy uses controlled heat to disrupt pain-transmitting nerves in the neck, providing long-lasting relief for chronic cervical facet joint pain.
What Is Cervical Facet Radiofrequency Neurotomy?
Cervical facet radiofrequency neurotomy (also called radiofrequency ablation or RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat generated by radio waves to selectively disrupt the medial branch nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals from the cervical facet joints in the neck. By creating a precise thermal lesion on these nerves, the procedure effectively interrupts the pain pathway without affecting motor function or spinal stability.
This procedure is one of the most effective interventional treatments for chronic neck pain originating from the cervical facet joints.
How Does It Work?
The cervical spine has paired facet joints at each level that are innervated by small medial branch nerves. When these joints become inflamed or arthritic, the medial branch nerves transmit persistent pain signals. Radiofrequency neurotomy uses a specialized needle to deliver targeted heat (approximately 80°C) to each nerve for 60-90 seconds, creating a lesion that prevents the nerve from transmitting pain.
The key steps include:
Fluoroscopic guidance positions the radiofrequency needle precisely alongside the target nerve
Sensory testing confirms the needle is at the correct nerve by reproducing the patient's typical pain
Motor testing ensures no motor nerves are at risk
Thermal lesioning disrupts the nerve's pain-transmitting ability
Conditions Treated
Cervical facet arthropathy — degeneration and inflammation of the neck facet joints
Cervical spondylosis — age-related wear and tear of the cervical spine
Whiplash-associated neck pain — chronic pain following cervical acceleration-deceleration injuries
Chronic neck pain — when facet joints are confirmed as the pain source via diagnostic medial branch blocks
Cervicogenic headaches — headaches originating from cervical spine structures
What to Expect During the Procedure
Before: You must have had at least one (preferably two) successful diagnostic medial branch blocks confirming facet joint pain. You may need to stop blood thinners prior to the procedure.
During: You'll be positioned face-down with your neck slightly flexed. After sterile preparation and local anesthesia, the physician uses fluoroscopy to guide radiofrequency needles to each target nerve. Sensory and motor testing confirm accurate placement. The thermal lesion is then created at each level. The procedure typically takes 30-60 minutes depending on the number of levels.
After: You may have neck soreness for 1-2 weeks. A temporary increase in pain (neuritis) is normal. Full pain relief typically develops over 2-4 weeks. Light activities can be resumed the next day, with return to full activity in about one week.
Benefits
Long-lasting pain relief averaging 9-14 months, with some patients experiencing relief for 2+ years
Minimally invasive — no incisions or general anesthesia required
Can be safely repeated when nerves regenerate
Reduces dependence on pain medications
High success rate (70-80%) in properly selected patients
Significant improvement in neck mobility and quality of life
Risks and Side Effects
Post-procedure soreness (common, resolves in 1-2 weeks)
Temporary neuritis (burning sensation in treated area)
Small patch of skin numbness near treatment site
Infection (very rare)
Nerve damage beyond target (exceedingly rare with proper technique)
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I'm a candidate for cervical radiofrequency neurotomy?
You're a candidate if your neck pain is confirmed to originate from the facet joints through successful diagnostic medial branch blocks (typically 80% or greater pain relief during the blocks) and conservative treatments haven't provided lasting relief.
How long does the pain relief last?
Most patients experience 9-14 months of significant relief. Some patients report relief lasting 18 months to 2+ years. The procedure can be repeated when nerves regenerate.
Is the procedure painful?
Most patients report mild to moderate discomfort. Local anesthetic numbs the skin and deeper tissues. Brief heat sensations occur during the lesioning. Light sedation is available for additional comfort.
Will I need physical therapy afterward?
Physical therapy is often recommended to maximize functional improvement once pain has decreased. Your physician will provide specific recommendations.
Can this procedure help my headaches?
Yes. If your headaches originate from the upper cervical facet joints (cervicogenic headaches), radiofrequency neurotomy of the upper cervical medial branch nerves can provide significant headache relief.
How is this different from a cervical epidural steroid injection?
Epidural steroid injections deliver anti-inflammatory medication to reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief. Radiofrequency neurotomy physically disrupts the pain nerve, providing much longer-lasting relief. They address different pain sources — epidurals for nerve root compression, RFA for facet joint pain.
APSI Wellness — Advanced Pain Solutions & Interventions
5405 DuPont Circle Suite A, Milford, OH 45150 | Phone: (513) 936-3050
https://apsiwellness.com/services/cervical-facet-radiofrequency-neurotomy