Rhizotomy Surgery in Edison, NJ

What This Page Covers:

• Rhizotomy Surgery: A minimally invasive procedure that targets nerve roots to reduce chronic pain, offering long-lasting relief for conditions like facet joint syndrome and spinal arthritis.
• Procedure: Performed on an outpatient basis with local anesthesia, using imaging guidance to precisely sever or damage specific nerves with radiofrequency waves or a chemical agent.
• Candidates: Ideal for those with chronic pain unresponsive to conservative treatments. Requires a thorough evaluation to determine suitability and overall health status.
• NJ Spine & Orthopedic: Provides advanced rhizotomy techniques with personalized care and comprehensive concierge services.

Chronic back and neck pain can be debilitating, making everyday activities a struggle. For many, traditional treatments such as medication or physical therapy offer limited relief. Rhizotomy surgery, a minimally invasive procedure, is a promising option for those suffering from chronic pain caused by nerve-related issues. This surgery targets the nerves causing pain, providing long-lasting relief and improving quality of life.

NJ Spine & Orthopedic provides cutting-edge treatments like rhizotomy surgery. Our team of experienced spine surgeons is dedicated to delivering personalized care to each patient. We use state-of-the-art technology to perform minimally invasive procedures, ensuring quicker recovery times and less postoperative pain. If you’re dealing with chronic pain and seeking effective relief, NJ Spine can help you explore if rhizotomy surgery is the right option.

Understanding Rhizotomy Surgery

Rhizotomy surgery involves severing or damaging nerve roots to interrupt pain signals sent to the brain. This procedure is particularly effective for conditions such as facet joint syndrome, where pain originates from the small joints in the spine. By targeting specific nerve roots, rhizotomy can significantly reduce or eliminate chronic pain, providing patients with long-term relief.

There are several types of rhizotomy, including radiofrequency rhizotomy and chemical rhizotomy. Radiofrequency rhizotomy uses heat generated by radio waves to disrupt the nerves causing pain. This method is highly precise and minimizes damage to surrounding tissues. Chemical rhizotomy, on the other hand, involves injecting a chemical agent to destroy the targeted nerve roots. Both methods aim to achieve the same outcome: interrupting pain signals to provide relief.

The success of rhizotomy surgery largely depends on accurate diagnosis and precise targeting of the affected nerves. Advanced imaging techniques such as fluoroscopy or CT scans are often used to guide the surgeon during the procedure. This ensures that only the problematic nerves are treated, minimizing the risk of complications and enhancing the effectiveness of the surgery.

Candidates for Rhizotomy Surgery

Rhizotomy surgery is not suitable for everyone. Ideal candidates are those who have chronic pain that has not responded to conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, or injections. Patients with conditions like facet joint syndrome, spinal arthritis, or sacroiliac joint pain may benefit from this procedure. It is crucial to undergo a thorough evaluation to determine if rhizotomy is the best option for your specific condition.

Before considering rhizotomy, doctors typically recommend trying less invasive treatments. This might include physical therapy to strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling, or nerve blocks to determine the exact source of the pain. If these treatments do not provide sufficient relief, rhizotomy may be considered.

Another important factor in determining candidacy is the patient’s overall health. Those with underlying health conditions that could complicate surgery, such as uncontrolled diabetes or severe osteoporosis, may not be suitable candidates for rhizotomy. A comprehensive medical evaluation is necessary to ensure the patient can safely undergo the procedure and benefit from its results.

The Procedure and Recovery

Rhizotomy surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can return home the same day. The procedure begins with the patient lying face down on an operating table. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area, and a mild sedative may be given to help the patient relax. Using imaging guidance, the surgeon inserts a needle or probe to target the specific nerve roots responsible for the pain.

Once the target nerves are located, the surgeon either uses radiofrequency waves or a chemical agent to sever or damage them. The entire procedure usually takes less than an hour. Patients are monitored for a short period after the surgery before being allowed to go home. Most patients experience significant pain relief within a few days, though full recovery may take several weeks.

Postoperative care is crucial for a successful recovery. Patients are advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a few days. Gradually, they can resume normal activities as directed by their surgeon. Follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor the patient’s progress and address any concerns. In some cases, physical therapy may be recommended to enhance recovery and prevent future pain.

Is Rhizotomy Surgery Right for You?

Deciding to undergo rhizotomy surgery is a significant step that requires careful consideration. It is essential to have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider about the potential benefits and risks associated with the procedure. Understanding your condition, the expected outcomes of the surgery, and the recovery process will help you make an informed decision.

At NJ Spine & Orthopedic, we offer comprehensive evaluations to determine if rhizotomy surgery is appropriate for you. Our team of specialists will review your medical history, conduct a physical examination, and use advanced diagnostic tools to pinpoint the source of your pain. We will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that best suits your needs and goals.

We are dedicated to helping patients from all over the nation find relief from chronic pain. Our concierge team is available to assist with travel arrangements and accommodations, making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. If you are considering rhizotomy surgery, contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Why Choose NJ Spine & Orthopedic for Your Rhizotomy Surgery?

At NJ Spine & Orthopedic, we pride ourselves on providing top-quality care using the latest minimally invasive techniques. Our team of board-certified spine surgeons has extensive experience performing rhizotomy surgery and other advanced spine procedures. We are committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for our patients with the least invasive approach. Choosing NJ Spine means benefiting from our patient-centered approach. We understand that chronic pain can be life-altering, and our goal is to help you regain your quality of life as quickly as possible. 

Our comprehensive concierge services ensure all aspects of your treatment and recovery are handled with the utmost care and attention. If you are ready to explore rhizotomy surgery as a solution for your chronic pain, reach out to the experienced team at NJ Spine & Orthopedic today. Call us at (866) 553-0612 or visit our contact form to schedule your consultation. Let us help you take the first step toward a pain-free life.