Rhizotomy is a type of surgery used to treat conditions that cause chronic pain. In this minimally invasive procedure, the nerve roots go to the affected area. This can help to relieve pain by stopping nerves from sending pain signals. The surgeons perform the Rhizotomy process as an outpatient procedure, and recovery time is typically short. There are several advantages to having this surgery, which include relief from chronic pain, improved mobility, and a decrease in the need for pain medications. In this bog we will answer What is Rhizotomy and how it is helpful for you.
The surgeons will cut or burn the nerve in Rhizotomy
Purpose of a rhizotomy
The major purpose of Rhizotomy is to elevate pain and provide patient relief from it. It helps treat disc degeneration, spinal stenosis, and facet joint dysfunction.
Rhizotomy vs Percutaneous Radiofrequency Ablation: Which is right for you?
Rhizotomy is a minimally invasive surgery to stop nerve fibres responsible for pain signals to the brain.
Radiofrequency ablation is when the surgeon inserts a minor camera through a nerve to locate the pain-causing nerve.
Both of these procedures are types of Rhizotomy taking a different approach. The major difference between these procedures is the DVA vein is not damaged permanently, whereas, in RFA, the surgeon burns the nerve fibres to reduce pain.
How to prepare for the rhizotomy procedure?
The healthcare provider performs certain tests to diagnose the pain source correctly. Your healthcare provider will ask you for certain tests. You must follow these steps before this procedure:
- Stopping aspirin for a couple of weeks to reduce the blood thinning process.
- If you are using blood thinning, stop using them at least five days before the procedure.
- Stop using anti-inflammatory medications before five days.
- Communicate the list of medications with your healthcare provider.
- Before surgery, stop eating, drinking or taking medications for at least four hours.
- You must have a family member or friend while going for the procedure.
Rhizotomy is treatment for which conditions?
Surgeons use rhizotomy procedure to treat
- Chronic back pain
- Muscle spasms
- You may experience pain while leaning backwards but don’t experience pain while leaning forward.
What is Rhizotomy, and how can it help relieve your pain?
The success rate of Rhizotomy is 90%, and its results remain for at least five years. In certain cases, they never grow back.
Who requires Rhizotomy?
- People with certain medical conditions that cause back pain require Rhizotomy.
- People have pain in a specific region or spot (axial back pain) but without pain in the leg.
- Children have muscle spasticity in the legs limiting their mobility, and a little spasticity in the arms. They are overall well. The surgery, along with physical therapy, improves mobility.
Care after rhizotomy procedure
- The surgery is over, and you are allowed to resume your normal routine and work activities from the very next day of the surgery, but you must avoid
- Strenuous activities
- Heavy weight lifting for two to three days.
- You can shower but avoid bathing, swimming or soaking yourself in the hot tub for at least 24 hours.
How much time do you have to stay at home?
During a rhizotomy, healthcare uses an anesthetic, so they may detain you for 24 hours in the hospital. The observation time depends on the quantity of anesthetic used and the patient’s response.
Is Rhizotomy a painful procedure?
Pain varies from person to person in this procedure. Your healthcare provider may recommend IV sedation if you have lower pain tolerance or expect to experience more pain during this procedure.
Sometimes, the healthcare provider shortens your observation time if you don’t have IV sedation. They may use IV sedation to reduce the pain you may experience during the procedure.
What is the difference between nerve blocking and Rhizotomy?
Medical branch blocking is a reversible process that requires local anesthetic injection. Surgeons perform Nerve blocking before Rhizotomy. In Rhizotomy, the surgeon destroys or cuts the nerve to treat facet joints.
Side effects of Rhizotomy
Major side effects of Rhizotomy are
Your nerve may grow back. That is why you must improve your back and core muscle strength. Strong back muscles keep you away from a condition that requires surgery.
Complications and possible risks involved in Rhizotomy.
Complications and risks are involved in every medical procedure and are associated with Rhizotomy. The complications may include the following.
The above-mentioned are the possible complications and risk factors associated with Rhizotomy. These risks are not common in most patients. If these conditions happen, you must talk to your healthcare provider immediately.
Is Rhizotomy a pain relief?
Yes! Rhizotomy is a common procedure for pain relief. Your healthcare provider may suggest whether this procedure is right for you. The procedure may take two to four weeks to improve pain symptoms.
Cost of Rhizotomy
Rhizotomy costs vary from minor to major conditions; they may range from US $ 1200 to 4500. When healthcare provider considers RFA surgery important, Medicare covers the surgery.
Healing time for Rhizotomy
Rhizotomy is an outpatient procedure that requires an hour to complete. Healing time for this procedure may take a few weeks.
What do the surgeons from complete medical wellness do for you?
Surgeons from complete medical wellness help you with proper diagnosis and recommend the right procedure. They are available 24/7 for your help. The massage therapists also help you to recover soon. You must not do in during the massage and be careful about your health.