What is Radiofrequency Ablation Technology?

Radiofrequency ablation is a highly advanced and minimally invasive treatment modality used in patients of chronic pain. Currently practiced by only Pain physicians in India, It involves use radiofrequency ( high frequency) waves which are delivered around the problematic nerves of the joints with the help of specially designed needles at a predetermined intensity and time.

How dose Radiofrequency ablation help in treatment of chronic pain?

Targeted delivery of Radiofrequency currents around the problematic nerves bring about their Wallerian degeneration which is a neurological process where in the nerve per se degenerates leaving the peripheral layer of the nerve intact. The nerve then grows back slowly over a period of 6-12 months and the new nerve that is formed is healthy.

This technology, thus, breaks the vicious Pain cycle and gives the patients a chance to go back to their normal pain free lives.

What are the various mechanisms of action of Radiofrequency ablation?

Peripheral Wallerian degeneration of the nerve: Due to the application of Radiofrequency currents , the friction between the various tissue molecules generate thermal energy which burns the nerves and brings about what is called as conduction block. So these nerves stop conducting pain signals from the affected site towards the brain where pain stimulus is actually processed and patient feels immediate relief from pain.

Central neuromodulation: Chronic pain has a component of Central Sensitization where in there is amplification of the pain signals in the brain and patients experience pain even in the absence of any movements or painful stimulus. With application of Radiofrequency ablation there is modulation in these central neural circuitries and the central sensitization is abolished. Thus, new nerves that regenerate are healthy.