Cervical radiofrequency treatments, also known
as radiofrequency neurotomy or rhizotomy, is a minimally invasive procedure performed
for management of facet joint related neck pain. Facet joints are a little joint situated
throughout the spinal column. Pain signals from facet joints are carried by small nerves
called the medial branches. Radiofrequency treatment disrupts the pain signals carried by
the medial branches. The procedure is done under local anesthetic. The doctor will initially
numb the skin and deeper tissues with the numbing medicine. A special x-ray machine is
then used to guide the radiofrequency needle accurately near the irritated medial branch nerve.
A radiofrequency electrode is inserted through the needle and a small electric current is passed
to test the position of the needle. Finally, the electrode is heated to stun the nerve
and thereby preventing it from transmitting painful signals to the brain. Radiofrequency
treatments can take four to six weeks to work. Pain relief can last between 6 months to 24
months though this may not always be the case.