Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
How Effective And Safe Is Radiofrequency Thermocoagulation?
I am 56 years old. In 2010 I had a tumor pressing on my spine, almost to the point of paralysis, before the last MRI spotted it. It was emergency surgery and removed Aug. 2010. The neurosurgeon went down through My cervical discs and destroyed all the discs removing the tumor. I was unaware of the damage to my cervical discs. Pain was unbelievable. After the neurosurgeon released me, I saw a orthopedic surgeon. Du to the curvature of my discs, he replaced c-2-c-7 with titanium. I am always in pain and uncomfortable constantly. I am a patient of pain management, which help, but do not relieve pain. I am o have a procedure tomorrow. I am curious about the procedure of Radio Frequency Thermo-Coagulation. My entire body is in pain and the procedures can only help one part of my body. Which procedure would you recommend and what is your opinion of this procedure I mentioned. Thank you for your help. Debbie
posted on
Sun, 17 May 2015
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Sat, 4 Mar 2023
Answered on
Mon, 3 Apr 2023
Last reviewed on
Hi,
Radiofrequency thermocoagulation is an invasive procedure that is minimal and uses heat to destroy nerve fibers that transmit pain signals to the brain. It is generally considered to be a safe and effective treatment for chronic pain, including neck and back pain. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects associated with radiofrequency thermocoagulation, including infection, bleeding, nerve damage, and persistent pain.
It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure with your healthcare provider and pain management specialist and to weigh the potential benefits against any potential risks and side effects. In terms of which procedure to choose, it is important to work with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your specific condition and symptoms. This may involve a combination of therapies, including medication, physical therapy, and interventional procedures such as radiofrequency thermocoagulation.
Ultimately, the goal of treatment is to provide effective pain relief and improve your overall quality of life. Working closely with your healthcare provider can help ensure that you receive the most appropriate and effective treatment for your individual needs.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
Radiofrequency thermocoagulation is an invasive procedure that is minimal and uses heat to destroy nerve fibers that transmit pain signals to the brain. It is generally considered to be a safe and effective treatment for chronic pain, including neck and back pain. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects associated with radiofrequency thermocoagulation, including infection, bleeding, nerve damage, and persistent pain.
It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure with your healthcare provider and pain management specialist and to weigh the potential benefits against any potential risks and side effects. In terms of which procedure to choose, it is important to work with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your specific condition and symptoms. This may involve a combination of therapies, including medication, physical therapy, and interventional procedures such as radiofrequency thermocoagulation.
Ultimately, the goal of treatment is to provide effective pain relief and improve your overall quality of life. Working closely with your healthcare provider can help ensure that you receive the most appropriate and effective treatment for your individual needs.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Loading Online Doctors....