Lumbar disc herniation treatments using the radiofrequency method aim to interrupt pain transmission in the nerves to alleviate symptoms. This treatment is applied in two main ways: continuous and pulsed current. Continuous current causes tissue damage in the treated area through high heat, while pulsed current is applied at lower temperatures. Pulsed radiofrequency treatment creates a modulatory effect on the nerves, providing long-lasting pain relief. This method is especially preferred for herniation problems in the neck and lumbar regions. To maintain its therapeutic effect, the procedure may sometimes be repeated.
What Is the Radiofrequency Method in Lumbar Disc Herniation?
In lumbar disc herniation, the radiofrequency method targets the nerves in the lumbar region to reduce pain. This method can be applied using two different techniques:
- Continuous Radiofrequency: High-temperature radiofrequency current is applied, creating controlled tissue damage in the treated area.
- Pulsed Radiofrequency: Applied at lower temperatures, this method exerts a modulatory effect on the nerves.
Both techniques temporarily interrupt nerve function, preventing pain signals from reaching the brain. Continuous radiofrequency is generally preferred for more severe and chronic pain, while pulsed radiofrequency is less invasive and used for long-term pain control. The choice of method depends on the patient’s condition and response to treatment. These methods can offer faster and more effective solutions compared to other options, especially for patients with chronic low back pain.
Radiofrequency treatment is typically recommended when other treatments have not yielded sufficient results. The treatment process requires preparation and is usually performed under local anesthesia. Most patients can return to normal activities shortly after the procedure. However, efficacy and duration vary between individuals.
What Is Radiofrequency Used for in Lumbar Disc Herniation?
It targets nerve function to reduce chronic pain. During the procedure, heat energy is directed to specific nerve pathways to block pain signals. This method helps patients carry out daily activities more comfortably and improves quality of life.
Radiofrequency treatment is particularly applicable in:
- Cases where conservative methods like medication and physical therapy have failed.
- Chronic pain unresponsive to other noninvasive treatments.
- Patients who experience pain relief after diagnostic nerve blocks.
When applied to specific areas such as facet joints or the sacroiliac joint, the treatment is highly effective at reducing pain. Success depends on the targeted area and the patient’s overall health. Radiofrequency ablation not only provides temporary pain relief but also enables patients to lead more active lives.
How Does the Radiofrequency Method Work in Lumbar Disc Herniation?
This treatment targets specific nerve pathways to block pain signals from reaching the brain, directly addressing the pain source.
The procedure begins with local anesthesia. Anesthetic is applied to the painful area to ensure patient comfort. Radiofrequency needles are then placed adjacent to the target nerves under X-ray guidance. Radiofrequency waves are delivered to the nerves through these needles.
Radiofrequency treatment can be applied in two ways:
- Continuous Radiofrequency: Electrodes deliver high-temperature radiofrequency waves to the nerves, interrupting pain signal transmission by affecting nerve fibers.
- Pulsed Radiofrequency: Electrodes apply radiofrequency energy in short bursts at lower temperatures, modulating nerve function with minimal tissue damage.
Treatment efficacy depends on successful targeting of nerve pathways. During the procedure, pain levels and nerve responses are carefully monitored to confirm accurate and effective application.
After completion, the treatment site is covered with a small bandage. Patients can usually go home the same day. Recovery and pain reduction timelines vary; most patients begin to feel relief within a few weeks.
Advantages of radiofrequency treatment include its minimally invasive nature and quick return to normal activities. However, nerves may regenerate over time, potentially leading to pain recurrence. In such cases, retreatment may be recommended.
What Are the Complications of Radiofrequency in Lumbar Disc Herniation?
While radiofrequency neurotomy is an effective method for lumbar disc herniation, it carries some risks. Complications typically appear after the procedure and vary among patients. Some may experience temporary pain or numbness at the needle insertion site, which rarely becomes permanent or unresponsive to medication. More serious complications include nerve damage leading to paralysis. The likelihood of these serious issues depends on the technique and patient factors. Post-procedure complications can include:
- Temporary pain or numbness at the needle site
- Persistent numbness not relieved by medication
- Paralysis
It is important to inform patients of these risks before treatment.
What Are the Benefits of Radiofrequency in Lumbar Disc Herniation?
Benefits of the radiofrequency method for lumbar disc herniation include:
- Long-lasting pain relief: Neuroablation disrupts nerve function, halting pain signal transmission. This effect can reduce or eliminate pain for months to years.
- Improved mobility and quality of life: Pain reduction enables patients to be more active and continue daily activities more comfortably.
- Reduced dependence on painkillers: This treatment can decrease medication use and minimize side effects.
This method offers a surgical alternative for pain management, enabling faster recovery. Radiofrequency is an effective solution for chronic low back pain, providing sustained pain control. The procedure is brief, and most patients quickly resume daily activities. Patients regain their quality of life and reduce reliance on pain medications. Because it carries no operative risks and has a shorter recovery time, this method is frequently chosen for pain from lumbar disc herniation.
When Does Radiofrequency Treatment Take Effect?
Positive changes are typically observed within a week of the first application. Adhering to prescribed medications enhances efficacy. Performing recommended exercises during treatment also supports recovery. The patient’s health status and lifestyle significantly influence outcomes; excess weight can accelerate the effect of radiofrequency in disc herniation. If symptoms persist after initial treatment:
- Patients may not have fully complied with the treatment.
- A second radiofrequency session may be necessary.
This underscores the need for personalized treatment, as individual responses vary. Comparing treatments can be misleading, as each patient’s condition and response are unique.
Additional Resources and Documents
https://ozgurkilickesmez.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Characteristics-and-Short-Term-Surgical-Outcomes-of-Patients-with-Recurrent-Lumbar-Disc-Herniation-after-Percutaneous-Laser-Disc-Decompression.pdf
Prof. Dr. Özgür Kılıçkesmez graduated from Cerrahpaşa Medical Faculty in 1997. He completed his specialization at Istanbul Education and Research Hospital. He received training in interventional radiology and oncology in London. He founded the interventional radiology department at Istanbul Çam and Sakura City Hospital and became a professor in 2020. He holds many international awards and certificates, has over 150 scientific publications, and has been cited more than 1500 times. He is currently working at Medicana Ataköy Hospital.
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