Lumbar Medial Branch Radiofrequency Denervation

This procedure is performed by using radiofrequency energy to disrupt the function of nerves that supply the facet joints in the low back. (link lumbar facet pain).  

The purpose of this procedure is to stop pain from the lumbar facet joints for usually about a years time.  This procedure is performed when the patient is lying down under x-ray guidance almost identically to how the diagnostic procedure was performed (link lumbar medial branch nerve blocks).  

Some additional testing is conducted to ensure safe placement of the needles before heating them up.  Then the small needles are heated up to disable the nerves function that carries pain signals from the facet joints.

When successful this procedure can be repeated when the pain returns without needing to have the test injections again.

Pre Injections Instructions

If you are anxious about your procedure, sedation may be an option for you.
If your plan of care involves sedation, you must meet the following criteria:

01

Come to your appointment with a responsible adult driver.

02

Fast for at least 6-8 hours prior to our appointment time. Morning medications can be taken with a sip of water no later than 2 hours prior to you appointment time. Exceptions may include diabetic medications, in this case please call the office for specific instructions.

03

If you are taking blood thinners or supplements, we may ask that you discontinue them prior to your procedure. Never stop these medications without approval from the physician prescribing them.

If you are taking blood thinners your pain physician may ask they be discontinued prior to injection.  Never stop these medications without permission from the physician prescribing them. Please call our office if your blood thinner is not listed:

  • Acenocoumarol
  • Agggrenox
  • Aggrastat   
  • Arixtra
  • Aspirin
  • Brilinta
  • Edoxaparin
  • Effient
  • Eliquis
  • Heparin
  • Integrilin
  • Lovenox
  • Pentoxil
  • Plavix
  • Pletal 
  • Pradaxa
  • ReoPro
  • Ticlid
  • Warfarin/Coumadin
  • Xarelto

If you are taking any supplements such as Fish Oil, Garlic, Ginseng, Vitamin A&E, Ginger, Kava Kava, Clove, White Willow bark, or Gingko please stop these 7 days prior to your procedure.

Start the Path Towards Healing

Our physicians offer ​diagnostic testing, fluoroscopic guided procedures and steroid injections. Our goal is to restore function of damaged joints, nerves, and muscles to treat low back, neck, and other pain. Our mission is to have all patients living their lives with minimal pain and to meet each of our patients’ needs with the highest quality care. We offer innovative solutions utilizing the latest, minimally invasive technologies.