Cervical Radiofrequency Rhizotomy Side Effects

The only way to determine if a rhizotomy is the right choice to ease your chronic back pain is to consult with a skilled spine specialist.

Cervical radiofrequency rhizotomy side effects.

Numbness that lasts for more than 2 or 3 hours. Cervical facet radiofrequency neurotomy video this minimally invasive procedure also known as a radio frequency rf reduces or eliminates the pain of damaged facet joints by disrupting the medial branch nerves that carry the pain signals. Redness swelling bleeding or drainage at the injection site. Radiofrequency ablation or rfa also known as rhizotomy has become a mainstay of low back pain treatment in the u s.

What are the side effects and risks of radiofrequency neurotomy. Who should not get radiofrequency. In some patients this pain may remain for a week or two after the procedure. But there are a few potential side effects which are not dangerous and usually resolve in a few days.

Very rarely do patients complain of any serious complications associated with the cervical facet radiofrequency procedure. Side effects are generally minimal and can include increased discomfort local bruising headache nausea fainting or dizziness. Side effects or complications. Burning and or hypersensitivity over the injection site numbness and or tingling over the injection site.

Soreness in the neck or at the injection site. During the procedure the patient will feel some back pain similar to what he or she experienced before the procedure. Common side effects include. Fever chills nausea or vomiting.

These symptoms are usually short lived and will resolve themselves. You may feel unsteady and should focus on horizontal objects such as window sills or floor edges. The main side effect of rfa is some discomfort including swelling and bruising at the site of the treatment but this generally goes away after a few days. There may also be a burning sensation on the back similar to sunburn pain.

In very rare cases the following seven serious complications may occur. Bleeding nerve damage motor deficits paralysis muscle weakness severe pain allergic reaction to medications.