Radiofrequency Ablation Specialist
Have back or joint pain?
Back pain is one of the most common conditions for which men and women seek treatment from Dr. Dombrowski, MD. At the Washington Pain Center, Dr. Dombrowski relieves the back pain of the men and women of Washington and the surrounding region with treatments like radiofrequency ablation. If you’d like to learn more about this effective pain relief method, schedule an appointment by using the online form or calling Dr. Dombrowski’s office.
What is radiofrequency ablation?
Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency ablation is an outpatient procedure in which the physician uses a needle that transmits an electrical current to heat damaged or inflamed nerves. Guided by advanced imaging technology, Dr. Dombrowski inserts a needle directly into the location of the pain.
Dr. Dombrowski cleans the injection site to prevent infection, and then he administers a local anesthetic and possibly a mild sedative to make you as comfortable as possible. As a microelectrode sends radio waves to the affected nerve, you may feel a tingling sensation from the electrical current.
Results of radiofrequency ablation are semi-permanent because it only temporarily interferes with how the spinal column sends pain signals to the brain.
Are there any special precautions to take after radiofrequency ablation?
Immediately proceeding radiofrequency ablation, Dr. Dombrowski and his staff monitor you for serious side effects, including paralysis, changes in motor function, muscle weakness, and severe pain. Dr. Dombrowski recommends taking it easy for the first few days and resuming your daily activities gradually based on the amount of pain you experience.
During the first 24 hours after radiofrequency ablation, you should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.
You might have the following symptoms after the procedure:
Burning pain
Soreness
Hypersensitivity around the injection site
Mild numbness
To combat any anticipated side effects, Dr. Dombrowski may prescribe pain medication you take on an as-needed basis. He also advises you on how to effectively use ice, heat, or a combination of both to reduce your discomfort. Keep in mind that you could experience pain for up to a month after the procedure because it can take that long to destroy the nerve.
What are the possible complications from radiofrequency ablation?
Complications of radiofrequency ablation are rare, but include the following:
Allergic reaction to medications or materials used
Discomfort or pain around the injection site
Skin numbness around the treatment site
Muscle spasms that worsen your pain
Permanent nerve pain
Infection
In about 3-5% of people who undergo the procedure, sunburn-like pain occurs. This pain potentially lasts for several weeks. It happens more frequently in the upper neck than anywhere in the back.
Long-lasting back pain relief is possible with radiofrequency ablation provided by Dr. Dombrowski of the Washington Pain Center. Schedule an appointment today using the online form or by calling their office.