Lumbago and back pain affect more than 80% of people at some point in their life. For those with chronic symptoms, the treatments available are often temporary solutions to long term symptoms. This is the case with radiofrequency denervation, a procedure that’s also known as rhizotomy. What is rhizotomy? Which people is this procedure meant for? What are the reasons that make it an inferior alternative to cryodenervation? We give you all the relevant information so that you can make an informed decision!
What is Rhizotomy?
Rhizotomy — or radiofrequency denervation — is a procedure that consists in denervating the facet joint, which means destroying the nerves that transmit pain from damaged facets. The relief provided by this procedure is only temporary. Indeed, the main nerve responsible for this pain — the posterior median branch — can regrow after a certain amount of time. The relief provided by rhizotomy lasts for less than a year in 100% of the cases. A new rhizotomy must be performed and there is no limit to the number of times you can receive the procedure. The patient ends up on a new waiting list each time.
Who is Rhizotomy for?
Rhizotomy is for people with facet back pain or facet syndrome and for whom conventional treatments such as physiotherapy and medication haven’t been effective in relieving pain.
What Are the Limitations of Rhizotomy?
If you live in Quebec, the waiting times to get an appointment for a rhizotomy are currently more than a year. Moreover, the relief provided by the procedure is temporary: it lasts for less than a year in 100% of the cases. Indeed, the posterior median branch can regrow after a certain amount of time, and a new rhizotomy must then be performed.
What About Cryodenervation?
Cryodenervation is a treatment that uses extreme cold to freeze and destroy the nerves transmitting pain from damaged facet joints. This procedure addresses the underlying issue in a lasting way rather than merely providing temporary relief. It is considered one of the most effective treatments available for facet joint syndrome. The procedure is quick and allows patients to return to their normal activities shortly afterward.
The Advantages of Cryodenervation
Cryodenervation offers durable pain relief for people with facet pain from the cervical and lumbar region. Furthermore, the procedure has no side effects and is less invasive than other surgical alternatives. It is therefore a superior option in terms of efficiency.
Have you been diagnosed with facet back pain or facet syndrome? Do you have a prescription for a rhizotomy or radiofrequency denervation? Did you get a facet block with more than 80% improvement in the first hour? If you answered yes to one or more of these questions and you are looking for a permanent solution, you are an ideal candidate for our cryodenervation treatment! Contact us to make an appointment.
