While at Portland Pain & Spine, the physician usually starts with an injection of local anesthetic. After the area is anesthetized, a fluoroscope is used to place a radiofrequency needle in the affected area. A mild electrical current is then used to recreate the patient’s spinal pain, helping the physician to determine the exact location of the pain and the target nerves. When the nerve or nerves have been located, the physician then uses radiofrequency to perform the denervation and destroy the nerve. After completing the procedure the physician then bandages the needle entry location. This procedure typically has a duration of less than an hour, and after a short observation period, the patient is released.
Any swelling can be treated by applying an ice pack for 15 minutes at a time can. After an initial period of rest, normal activity may be resumed, with full relief being achieved in one to three weeks.