Radiofrequency Ablation
A minimally invasive procedure using high-frequency electrical current to heat and destroy specific nerve tissue to interrupt pain signals.
Full Definition
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a therapeutic technique that uses radiofrequency energy to create controlled thermal lesions in targeted neural tissue. In neuromodulation, RFA is primarily used for chronic pain management by interrupting nociceptive pathways. The procedure involves inserting a specialized electrode near the target nerve and applying radiofrequency current to generate temperatures of 80-90°C, creating a coagulative lesion. This technique is commonly employed for facet joint denervation, trigeminal neuralgia treatment, and sympathetic nerve blocks.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as RFA in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The patient underwent radiofrequency ablation of the medial branch nerves for chronic facet joint pain." — Operative report
- "Radiofrequency ablation provided 12 months of pain relief before symptom recurrence." — Follow-up assessment