Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure used to reduce pain. It involves heating a part of a pain-transmitting nerve with a radiofrequency needle to create a heat injury, which prevents the nerve from sending pain signals to the brain. RFA is typically done in a doctor's office or hospital and patients usually return home the same day. The procedure is similar to a needle biopsy and involves inserting a needle-like probe into the body.
Radiofrequency waves are sent from the probe into the surrounding tissue, resulting in the death of nearby cells. As these cells die, the immune system removes them, causing an internal reaction and usually causing the nodule to contract. In some types of chronic pain, radiofrequency ablation can disable the nerve fibers that carry the pain signal through the spinal cord to the brain. In appropriate patients, approximately 70% of RFA procedures provide pain relief that lasts a year or longer.
The technique may be useful for some people living with chronic arthritis or degenerative back and neck problems. If you and your doctor decide that RFA is appropriate for treating a thyroid nodule, you will have one or more fine-needle aspiration biopsy procedures to make sure that the nodule is benign. Because treatment of thyroid nodules with RFA is relatively new, the risk of these procedures is still being evaluated. Overall, radiofrequency ablation is an effective way to reduce or stop pain signals from reaching the brain. It can provide lasting relief for people with chronic pain, especially in the lower back, neck and arthritic joints.
It is important to discuss all available options with your doctor before deciding on any treatment plan.
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