Rhizotomy Surgery in West Orange, NJ

What This Page Covers:

• Rhizotomy Surgery: A minimally invasive procedure that disables specific nerves to reduce chronic back or neck pain, using radiofrequency energy to interrupt pain signals.
• Candidates: Ideal for those with conditions like facet joint arthritis, degenerative disc disease, or spinal stenosis who haven’t found relief from other treatments.
• Recovery: Typically involves mild soreness, with most patients resuming normal activities within a day or two. Pain relief can last several months to a few years.
• NJ Spine & Orthopedic: Offers advanced rhizotomy techniques and personalized care, helping patients achieve lasting pain relief and improved quality of life.

Living with chronic back or neck pain can be a debilitating experience, affecting every aspect of your life. If you have tried various treatments without success, you may feel frustrated and hopeless. Rhizotomy surgery, a minimally invasive procedure, offers a solution for many individuals suffering from persistent pain. This article will provide an in-depth look at rhizotomy surgery, how it works, who can benefit from it, and what to expect from the procedure.

NJ Spine & Orthopedic is dedicated to providing top-quality care for individuals experiencing back and neck pain. Our expert team of spine specialists uses the latest technology and techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. Whether you are considering rhizotomy surgery or another treatment, we are here to help you find relief and regain your quality of life.

What is Rhizotomy Surgery?

Rhizotomy surgery, also known as radiofrequency ablation, is a procedure used to relieve pain by disabling specific nerves in the spine. These nerves, called the medial branch nerves, transmit pain signals from the facet joints to the brain. By targeting these nerves, rhizotomy surgery can significantly reduce or eliminate chronic pain.

The procedure involves guiding a small needle to the affected nerves with the help of X-ray imaging. Once the needle is in place, radiofrequency energy is used to heat the nerve, creating a lesion that interrupts the transmission of pain signals. Depending on the individual, this process can provide pain relief for several months to a few years.

Rhizotomy surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can go home the same day. The procedure is minimally invasive, involving only small incisions, which helps reduce recovery time and the risk of complications. Most patients experience significant pain relief within a few weeks of the procedure.

Who Can Benefit from Rhizotomy Surgery?

Rhizotomy surgery is often recommended for individuals who suffer from chronic back or neck pain that has not responded to other treatments. This includes people with conditions such as facet joint arthritis, degenerative disc disease, or spinal stenosis. These conditions can cause inflammation and irritation of the facet joints, leading to persistent pain that can be difficult to manage with conservative treatments.

Before recommending rhizotomy surgery, doctors typically perform a diagnostic procedure called a medial branch block. This involves injecting a local anesthetic near the medial branch nerves to see if it temporarily relieves pain. If the patient experiences significant pain relief from this test, it indicates the facet joints are the likely source of pain, and rhizotomy surgery may be an appropriate treatment option.

Patients who are good candidates for rhizotomy surgery typically have localized pain in the back or neck that worsens with certain movements, such as bending or twisting. They may also experience pain that radiates to other areas, such as the shoulders, buttocks, or thighs. Rhizotomy surgery can help these patients regain mobility and improve their overall quality of life.

What to Expect During and After the Procedure

During rhizotomy surgery, patients are usually given a local anesthetic to numb the area around the spine. They may also receive a mild sedative to help them relax. The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the number of nerves being treated. Patients are monitored closely throughout the procedure to ensure their comfort and safety.

After the procedure, patients may experience some soreness or discomfort at the injection site. This is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Most patients can resume normal activities within a day or two, although it is recommended to avoid strenuous activities for a week or two to allow the body to heal.

The full effects of rhizotomy surgery may take a few weeks to become apparent. Patients often notice a gradual improvement in their pain levels and an increase in their ability to perform daily activities. The pain relief from rhizotomy surgery can last anywhere from several months to a few years, depending on the individual. In some cases, the procedure may need to be repeated to maintain the benefits.

Risks and Considerations

As with any medical procedure, rhizotomy surgery carries some risks. These may include infection, bleeding, or adverse reactions to anesthesia. However, these risks are relatively low, and complications are rare. The minimally invasive nature of the procedure also helps reduce the likelihood of complications.

Patients should discuss their medical history and any concerns with their doctor before undergoing rhizotomy surgery. It is essential to have realistic expectations about the potential outcomes and understand pain relief can vary from person to person. In some cases, additional treatments or lifestyle changes may be necessary to achieve the best results.

Rhizotomy surgery is not suitable for everyone. Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as severe spinal instability or infections, may not be good candidates for the procedure. Additionally, patients who have undergone previous spinal surgeries may have scar tissue that could interfere with the placement of the needle or the effectiveness of the treatment.

Is Rhizotomy Surgery Right for You?

If you are considering rhizotomy surgery, it is essential to consult with a spine specialist who can evaluate your condition and determine if you are a suitable candidate. At NJ Spine & Orthopedic, our team of experienced doctors will conduct a thorough examination and review your medical history to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.

We are dedicated to helping patients from all over the nation find relief from chronic back and neck pain. We understand the impact of pain on your life and are committed to providing compassionate, high-quality care to help you achieve the best possible outcomes. With our concierge team to assist with travel and accommodation arrangements, we strive to make the entire process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Contact NJ Spine Today

For those dealing with persistent back or neck pain, rhizotomy surgery can be a highly effective treatment option. By targeting the nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals, this minimally invasive procedure can provide long-lasting relief and improve your quality of life. If you think rhizotomy surgery might be right for you, we encourage you to reach out to our team for a consultation.

At NJ Spine & Orthopedic, we diagnose and treat a wide range of spine-related conditions using the latest technology and minimally invasive techniques. Our award-winning team is here to help you find the relief you need to get back to your daily activities. To learn more about rhizotomy surgery or to schedule a consultation, call us at (866) 553-0612 or fill out our contact form.