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Rhizotomy


 

RHIZOTOMY Q & A

WHAT IS A RHIZOTOMY?

A rhizotomy, also known as ablation or cauterization, is a minimally invasive procedure that treats many of the same conditions as nerve ablation therapy. It also targets nerve tissues that affect your facet joints.

When there are problems with your facet joints, your body sends pain signals to your brain. A rhizotomy turns off those pain signals.

HOW DOES A RHIZOTOMY WORK?

Dr. Glaser begins by applying a local anesthetic to numb the injection site. Doing so keeps you conscious during the procedure, but you won’t feel any pain.

Next, he intravenously (by IV) administers a mild sedative. Fluoroscopy, or real-time X-ray technology, helps guide the correct placement of the needle for your maximum treatment benefit.

You may feel some pressure or tingling as an electric current passes through the needle to guide its proper placement. Dr. Glaser uses a radiofrequency generator to move heat through the electrical current, which burns off targeted nerve tissue.

A thermosensor at the tip of the needle regulates the heating temperature of targeted nerve tissue temperature. That information is displayed on the screen of the Stryker® radiofrequency generator that Dr. Glaser uses to perform the rhizotomy procedure.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER A RHIZOTOMY?

You will likely experience some discomfort right after the procedure. This might include some unpleasantness at the injection site, including:

  • Bruising
  • Soreness
  • Swelling

You can return to your daily routine, including work, the day after your rhizotomy procedure. You’ll notice an improvement in your pain just a few short weeks following the procedure.

You may experience some soreness for the first few days after the procedure. Typically, a combination of icing and prescribed pain medication (only if necessary) will help alleviate your pain.

AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR A RHIZOTOMY?

If your pain subsides in response to facet block injections, you may be a good candidate for a rhizotomy.

Dr. Glaser discusses your options with you, reviews your medical history, and evaluates your overall health to be sure you can tolerate the procedure.

If you’re suffering from chronic back or neck pain, call or schedule a visit online with Dr. Glaser to discuss your symptoms and find out if this innovative technology might be the remedy you’ve been seeking.


GLASER PAIN RELIEF CENTER

INTERVENTIONAL PAIN MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST LOCATED IN ENCINO, CA

If your chronic pain responds well to facet nerve block therapy, you might be in line for a rhizotomy. At Glaser Pain Relief Center, top-ranked interventional pain management specialist, Jeffrey B. Glaser, MD, provides this minimally invasive surgical procedure that helps immensely with chronic neck and back pain. Call or click ‘Book Online’ to schedule an appointment today to discuss your eligibility for this innovative procedure that helps many people overcome debilitating pain conditions.

Location

Glaser Pain Relief Center
16311 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 518
San Fernando Valley

Encino, CA 91436
Phone: 818-501-7246
Fax: 818-501-7247

Office Hours

Get in touch

818-501-7246