What is a Cervical Rhizotomy procedure?
Rhizotomy is a term that describes the interruption of a spinal nerve, usually to treat pain. Rhizotomy is a minimally invasive procedure to treat neck and back pain resulting from arthritis of the joints of the spine, the facet joints. A rhizotomy is performed after previous injection procedures have confirmed that the facet joint is the cause of pain.
How is a Cervical Rhizotomy performed?
A needle is directed to the nerve that carries nerve signals from the inflamed facet joint. The needle has an electrode at its tip. Energy, in the form of a radiofrequency, is applied to the electrode. This causes heating of the nerve, shutting off painful signals coming from the facet joint. Pain relief lasts 3 to 6 months.
How long will Cervical Rhizotomy procedure take?
The procedure takes 30 minutes to an hour to perform. After the procedure you will recover for about 30 minutes before going home.
What is Cervical Rhizotomy recovery like?
You will walk out the door and go home the same day with pain medications. We advise no strenuous physical activity or heavy lifting for 2 to 3 days. After that, you can resume work and usual activities. Physical therapy and chiropractic care can be resumed immediately.
