RADIOFREQUENCY THERMAL COAGULATION
(RHIZOTOMY)

As part of your treatment at NeuroCare Network, your doctor will be performing a procedure called RFTC (radiofrequency thermal coagulation) or "medial branch neurotomy."

What is a Rhizotomy (RFTC) and why is it helpful?

This procedure is done to treat pain caused by the facet joints by creating a lesion or burn in the pain fibers to the facet joint also known as the Medial Branch of the posterior primary ramus.

The purpose of RFTC of the medial branch is to decrease pain and improve function. This is done only if pain is relieved temporarily by facet joint injections and then by medial branch nerve blocks.

How is it done?

It is accomplished by placing a special needle along side the facet joint under x-ray control. Following this, a controlled heat lesion is made to decrease the sensation of the facet joints.

An intravenous solution will be started so that medications or short acting sedative, if necessary, can be given during the procedure.

The procedure will take approximately 20-60 minutes. You will then be monitored for an additional hour. All measures will be taken to ensure your comfort and safety. After you return home, you may use ice packs to relieve any discomfort.

General Pre/Post Instructions

You should eat a light meal within a few hours before the procedure. If you are an insulin dependent diabetic, you must not change your normal eating pattern prior to the procedure. You may take your routine medications (i.e. high blood pressure and diabetic medications). If you are on Coumadin (blood thinners) or Glucophage (a diabetic medicine) you must notify the office so the timing of these medications can be explained.

These procedures are performed either at one of the hospitals or at the NeuroCare Network facility. You are generally asked to be at the appropriate location one hour before the procedure and can expect to be at that facility approximately 2-3 hours.

A driver must accompany you and be responsible for getting you home. No driving is allowed the day of the procedure. You may return to your normal activities the day after the procedure, including returning to work.

Potential Risks

Prior to this procedure, a written consent will be obtained that will include the possible risks and hazards. Certain effects are to be expected: Bruising at the injection sites, soreness and swelling. Possible effects include: burning sensation at the injection site, numbness, itching, and occasionally 2 - 3 weeks of increased pain. This is only temporary.

It is imperative that you be informed and have a full understanding of your treatment plan and of this procedure. If you have any questions, PLEASE contact us at (903) 597-3472 or (800) 846-4205 well in advance of your scheduled appointment so that we can clear any misconceptions and answer any other questions you may have.

Place of Procedure:

This procedure is done at either of the following:
East Texas Medical Center - 1000 S. Beckham - Tyler
Northpark Medical Plaza (across from Mother Frances Hospital) - 910 E. Houston

If you are unable to keep this appointment, please give notice as soon as possible and at least 24 hours in advance by calling (903) 597-3472 and ask to speak with the person who schedules your doctor's Special Procedures. Thank you.