Pain relief from radiofrequency ablation (RFA) can last anywhere from six to twelve months, and in some cases, even longer. Studies have shown that more than 70% of patients treated with RFA experience some degree of pain relief. In comparison to open surgery, RFA carries lower risks, although there is a small chance of bleeding or infection at the insertion site. Some people may experience temporary weakness or numbness, swelling, or bruising at the insertion site.
Radiofrequency ablation is a procedure that uses an electric current to heat a small area of nerve tissue and prevent it from sending pain signals. It can provide lasting relief for people with chronic pain, especially in the lower back, neck and arthritic joints. However, it is not a permanent solution for back or neck pain. Studies on the success of treatment have been contradictory; some people may have moderate pain relief in the short term, while others may feel better for several months.
Sometimes treatment does not improve pain or function at all. When the nerves grow back, the pain may recur and require additional RFA treatment. Pain relief can last from nine months to more than two years. It is possible that the nerve will grow back through the burned lesion that was created by radiofrequency ablation; if this happens, it usually occurs six to twelve months after the procedure.
Radiofrequency ablation is 70 to 80% effective in people who have successful nerve blocks. The procedure can be repeated if necessary. The amount of pain relieved after the procedure varies from person to person; it may take three or more weeks for the full effects of radiofrequency ablation to be noticed. In some cases, pain relief can last from six months to a year or even longer.
If this happens, radiofrequency ablation may need to be repeated. When it comes to treating thyroid nodules with RFA, the risk of these procedures is still being evaluated; if you and your doctor decide that ARF is appropriate for treating the thyroid nodule, you will have one or more fine-needle aspiration biopsies to make sure that the nodule is benign.
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