Facet joints are the small joints on the back of the spine. They contribute to back pain in approximately 40-50% of patients (even higher in elderly patients).
This procedure involves an electrically generated thermal (heat) injury to the small nerve supplying the joint at the back of the spine (facet joints) and is used for spinal pain. A radiofrequency current is generated at the end of a radiofrequency needle which, when placed close to the nerve, creates a lesion. The nerve is physiologically altered and stops transmitting pain impulses.
On average, most patients find the procedure will give at least six to nine months relief (up to 12-24 months relief is commonly experienced if the procedure is repeated on subsequent occasions). Medical literature identifies that the average duration of relief following this procedure is 400 days.
You will be prepared for theatre and wear a hospital gown. Once you are on the operating table an Anaesthetist will place a cannula in your arm and sedation (light anaesthetic) will be provided.
The procedure is performed under sterile conditions. Local anaesthetic is injected through a needle at the level where the procedure is to be performed. The radiofrequency needle is placed under x-ray guidance to the point where the nerve to the joint predictably runs. The nerve is then exposed to the radiofrequency current and a lesion is created. More local anaesthetic is injected following completion of the procedure.
It will be approximately three to four weeks after the procedure that maximum relief is likely to be experienced.
Before your Procedure
- have nothing to eat or drink for six hours before your procedure (you may drink a small amount of water only up until you leave home on the morning of your procedure)
- arrange for an adult to escort you home by car (you cannot drive for 24 hours after your procedure)
- arrange for an adult to be present with you for 24 hours following your procedure
- notify your Doctor if you are taking fish oil, blood thinning or diabetic medication
Following your Procedure
- you will normally be discharged 2 to 3 hours after the procedure unless you have had previous complications or are a country patient with no aftercare alternatives.
- do not drive or operate heavy machinery for 24 hours following the procedure
- you may have minor bruising and pain around the injection site
- a follow up appointment will be made for you to consult with your Doctor five to six weeks following the procedure
- limit your physical activity level following this procedure for three days
- you may require one day off from work following your procedure
Complications and Side Effects
- pain and bruising over the injection site
- potential risk of nerve and spinal cord injury
- potential risk of introduction of infection
- bleeding/bruising to the spinal area
- no or partial response to the procedure
- temporary exacerbation of pain due to irritation of the nerves after the therapeutic procedure. This commonly lasts for five to seven days but may last between one to two weeks
