CHAPTER 16
LUMBAR RADIOFREQUECY
RHIZOTOMY (RFR)
(This is the section that explains the detail of the operation or procedure
above and should be read in conjunction with the chapter Your Back
Operation).
A lumbar RFR procedure is performed for pain that is caused by damaged
facet joints. The aim of the operation is to temporarily paralyse the very small
nerves that supply the facet joint of pain sensation. This will then bring par-
tial or complete (but usually temporary) relief of the pain, spasm and referred
pain that these damaged facet joints can cause.
The reason why your specialist performs this procedure and not a more inva-
sive operation is because he or she is trying to be as conservative as possible
in treating your condition. The aim is to treat your symptoms without resort-
ing to a more invasive operation.
When undergoing this procedure, you will be lying on your stomach on bol-
sters or pillows. Your specialist will use an X-ray machine to guide the nee-
dles that are used to do the procedure with. A very thin electrode is inserted
through the needles and the nerve that supplies your facet joint is stunned or
damaged by radiofrequency generated by a radiofrequency generator.
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