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  Elena Ocher Medical

Radiofrequency Ablation of Facet Joints

What is it?
Facet RF or neurotomy is a procedure which results in interruption of the nerve supply to a facet joint. Denervation is accomplished by a radiofrequency probe that heats the small nerve branches to each facet joint.

How many facets are treated?
Based on your symptoms and your diagnostic block, your doctor will determine which facet(s) may be causing your pain.

Will I know right away if the procedure worked?
No, it may take several weeks before the results are known, but most patients notice improvement in 2 weeks.

Does the procedure hurt?
Most patients feel mild discomfort only during the placement of the need. After that, local anesthetic is used to prevent pain.

How long does it take?
The neurotomy takes 10 to 45 minutes, depending on the number of levels to be done.

Do I need to be put asleep for the procedure?
No. The procedure is done under local anesthesia because you need to be able to tell your doctor what you are feeling to improve results.

What should I expect after the procedure?
We advise patients to take it easy the day of the procedure. You may need to apply ice to the affected area for 20-30 minutes at a time for the next 48 hours. Your doctor will provide specific activity restrictions as indicated.
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Are there any potential risks to the procedure?
Generally speaking the procedure is safe, however with any procedure there are associated risks, side effects, and complications. The most common side effect is temporary discomfort following the procedure. Increased localized back pain and/or leg pain can be expected from several days to several weeks and rarely several months. Destabilization of the facet joint is a risk and post injection training to strengthen the extensor muscles can reduce this possibility. Fortunately, because the procedure is performed with x-ray guidance in a controlled environment, serious side effects and complications are rare.

1111 Park Ave., Suite 1G
New York, NY 10128
Phone: 646-678-3676

Fax: 646-669-9953
All Locations
For 24/7 Emergency Call:
(212) 889-4141 - Dr. Carl St. Martin

What Our PATIENTs Are Saying

"Elena Ocher and her team are magic! She and her partner are neurosurgeons -- the rest of her team are licensed Technicians. They are masters of epidermal shots and treatments that instantly work. She is filled with love, sensitivity and knowledge, knowledge, knowledge to help you. Elena works with all the top neurosurgeons and orthopedic specialists at ALL hospitals. I would highly recommend her."
If you are in legitimate pain, I guarantee this is the Doctor you are waiting for. She is a neurosurgeon who knows much more than pain management. You will be heard and you will be helped.

CHUDA SKINCARE

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  • Home
  • About Us
  • Expertise
  • Opportunities
  • Testimonials
  • Office Tour
  • Chuda SkinCare
  • Contact
  • Locations
  • Videos
  • Pain Management
  • Migraine & Headaches
  • Plastic Surgery
  • Anti-Aging & Cosmetics
  • Migraine Pre-Treatment Questionnaire
  • Blog
  • CoolSculpting