Pain
Center -
Radiofrequency Lesion Generation
What is Radiofrequency
Lesion Generation? Spinal facet joints are the movable portions of your spine, and with age or
injury, degeneration of these facet joints and
surrounding tissue can occur. Radiofrequency Lesion Generation is a low
risk method of treating mechanical pain
syndromes associated with the degeneration. Radiofrequency lesioning is used to interrupt
pain signals from the joint by distorting the nerve tissue so it does not function. The nerve will slowly
repair itself over three to six months. During this period you may exercise
with less pain and your spine becomes stronger and more stable by the time
the nerve regenerates.
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How is the procedure performed? Prior to your procedure the staff will ask you questions regarding your
health and medical history. During the procedure and IV is started to give you fluids, medicine, and
antibiotics. You will lie on your stomach and your heart rate, breathing and
blood pressure will be monitored. Because some discomfort can be associated with this procedure, you will be
given medicine to help you relax. This will provide a pleasant sensation,
but you will be somewhat alert and able to respond to the stimulation
process. With x-ray guidance your physician will insert a small needle into the area
where you are experiencing pain. A microelectrode is then inserted through
the needle to begin the stimulation process. Your response to this
stimulation provides the necessary feedback to ensure accurate placement of
the probe. When this area is verified, treatment begins with a small current
that travels through the electrode. The current distorts the nerve tissue so
it no longer functions, thus resulting in decreased pain. Following the
procedure itself you will be monitored for a short time.
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What happens after the procedure? You should not drive, operate machinery or
heavy equipment for 24 hours following your procedure. You can expect to have some discomfort for one to
two weeks following the procedure, but this can be relieved with pain
medication. Activities can be resumed as you are able to tolerate, along
with any medications you were taking prior to the procedure. You are also
able to diet as you wish.
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Instructions before your
procedure
Talk with your doctor for additional details.
Do not eat anything eight hours prior to the
procedure or drink anything four hours prior.
Notify the Pain Center before your procedure
if:
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You are taking anticoagulants (blood thinners) such as Coumadin or Heparin.
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You are a diabetic and take insulin or oral diabetic
medication.
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There is a chance you may be
pregnant.
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You have any allergies to x-ray dyes or latex products.
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You develop any infections or are currently taking antibiotics for an
infection.
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Important information about Radiofrequency Very few complications are associated with this procedure, but it does
include the risk of infection and, over time, the human body may regenerate
pain pathways. This could necessitate repeating the procedure in three to
six months. Please talk with your physician about the risks and potential
complications of Radiofrequency. Additional factors may prevent your physician form recommending this
procedure for your condition. If it is recommended for you, we advise you
openly discuss your treatment expectations with your physician, as he or she
is best suited to ensure your expectations are reasonable given your
personal condition.
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Insurance plan participation The
Miller-Dwan Pain Center participates with a wide variety of insurance
carriers, as well as Medicare, Medicaid, and Workers'
Compensation. For more information call the Pain Center at (218) 733-2344. Office hours
are 8 AM to 4:30 PM. After hours you may leave a message and we will return
your call. 
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