Radiofrequency ablation applies heat through a needle electrode to the medial branch nerves, disrupting pain signal transmission. Relief typically lasts six to twelve months until the nerves regenerate.
It is indicated after confirmatory diagnostic blocks.
Alternative Names:
RFA, Rhizotomy, Radiofrequency Neurotomy
Why it Matters?
Because nerves regenerate, ablation is repeated indefinitely, which makes it a significant future damages component in life care plans. That projection is where the defense inquiry focuses: whether the confirmatory blocks supporting the initial procedure were documented, whether relief was actually achieved and recorded, and whether the projected repetition interval matches the claimant's documented response rather than a generic schedule.
Frequently Confused with
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
How long does ablation relief last?
Why does it matter for future damages?
