Discover how Facet denervation provides long-term relief for Chronic Low Back Pain. Learn about Radiofrequency Facet Denervation at Liv Hospital.
Send us all your questions or requests, and our expert team will assist you.
Overview and Definition
Facet denervation is a minimally invasive procedure designed to interrupt the pain signals sent from the facet joints in the spine. These small joints, located between each vertebra, can become inflamed due to arthritis or injury, leading to persistent discomfort. By targeting the “medial branch” nerves that transmit pain from these joints, clinicians can provide a significant reduction in pain without the need for major surgery.
The most common technique used today is Radiofrequency Facet Denervation, also known as radiofrequency neurotomy. This procedure uses thermal energy to create a small, controlled interruption in the nerve’s ability to send pain messages. In some clinical circles, this is referred to as Facet Joint Rhizolysis. At Liv Hospital, we utilize high-precision Radio Frequency Lesioning technology to ensure that only the targeted pain-transmitting nerves are affected, preserving the surrounding motor and sensory functions.
Injury and Causes
The need for Facet denervation arises when the cartilage within the facet joints wears away. This is most frequently caused by osteoarthritis, which leads to “bone-on-bone” contact and the formation of bone spurs. Other triggers include repetitive stress from lifting, sudden twisting injuries, or degenerative disc disease, which places an abnormal mechanical load on these small spinal joints.
When these joints are damaged, they trigger a cycle of inflammation and muscle spasms. Because the facet joints are highly innervated, the resulting Chronic Low Back Pain can be debilitating, often worsening when standing, walking, or leaning backward. Radiofrequency Facet Denervation is performed to break this cycle. By utilizing Radio Frequency Lesioning, surgeons can “quiet” the joints, allowing the patient to engage in physical therapy and return to an active lifestyle that was previously too painful to maintain.
Diagnosis and Imaging
Before performing Facet denervation, a precise diagnosis is essential. At Liv Hospital, we use “Diagnostic Medial Branch Blocks.” During this test, a small amount of anesthetic is injected near the nerves. If the patient experiences immediate, significant relief, it confirms that those specific joints are the source of the Chronic Low Back Pain and that the patient will likely benefit from a permanent denervation.
To ensure the safety and accuracy of Radiofrequency Facet Denervation, we utilize real-time imaging:
Treatment and Recovery
During Radiofrequency Facet Denervation, the patient lies on their stomach under light sedation. Using fluoroscopic guidance, a specialized needle is placed near the target nerves. The Radio Frequency Lesioning device then sends a high-frequency current to heat the tip of the needle, creating a small heat lesion that “shuts off” the nerve. This process is repeated for each affected joint level to ensure comprehensive relief from Chronic Low Back Pain.
Recovery from Facet denervation is remarkably fast:
Rehabilitation Tips
Facet denervation provides a “window of opportunity” where the pain is significantly reduced. The goal of rehabilitation is to use this time to strengthen the “core” muscles that support the spine. At Liv Hospital, our specialized physical therapists design programs that maximize the longevity of your Radiofrequency Facet Denervation results.
Liv Hospital is a leader in advanced pain management and Facet denervation. Our specialists are experts in the most modern techniques, including Endoscopic Facet Joint Denervation on the Lumbar Spine and high-precision Radio Frequency Lesioning. We provide a comprehensive, patient-centered approach that combines diagnostic excellence with world-class interventional care. Our goal is to help you break free from the cycle of Chronic Low Back Pain and return to the activities you love. We encourage you to reach out and call Liv Hospital to see if you are a candidate for this life-changing, minimally invasive treatment.
Send us all your questions or requests, and our expert team will assist you.
No, the relief is not permanent because the nerve eventually regrows. The body is constantly trying to heal itself. However, the relief typically lasts between 9 months and 2 years. If the pain returns, the procedure can be repeated successfully.
Often, yes. You are given “twilight” sedation, similar to what is used for a colonoscopy. You
No. The medial branch nerves targeted in this procedure are sensory nerves for the joint. They do not control the large muscles that move your legs or arms. You will not lose strength or balance as a result of the nerve being treated.
are very relaxed and feel no pain due to local anesthesia, but you are breathing on your own. This allows you to communicate with the surgeon if needed, providing feedback on your pain levels.
You are usually given local anesthesia to numb the skin and often mild sedation to help you relax. You might feel some pressure or a deep ache when the doctor is working, but it is generally well-tolerated. The actual heat lesion takes less than 90 seconds.
No. Because you may receive sedation and your back might be sore, you cannot drive immediately after the procedure. You must arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home.
You might notice a small patch of numbness on the skin of your back near the injection site, but this is usually minor. The procedure targets the deep nerve inside the joint, not the skin nerves, so widespread numbness is rare.
Your Comparison List (you must select at least 2 packages)
