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Rhizotomy

Does your back pain keep you from enjoying life to the fullest? If you’ve tried almost everything and nothing seems to work, Ozark Orthopaedics can help. We offer a procedure called rhizotomy, a minimally invasive procedure that can help put an end to your back pain.

What is Rhizotomy?

Rhizotomy is a surgical procedure that can benefit those with lower back pain caused by facet joints. Facet joints are cartilage-lined points that protect your spine. They allow your back and neck to bend forward and backward. However, they can get inflamed by injury or arthritis, causing lower back pain. The pain caused by inflamed facet joints can feel like a shooting pain. For some, it can feel like a constant burning sensation. A facet rhizotomy can provide lasting lower back pain relief by disabling the sensory nerve found at the facet joints.

What can you expect before, during, and after Rhizotomy?

Before a facet rhizotomy, your doctor will review your medical history and previous imaging studies to plan the best location for the injections. If you’re taking any blood-thinning medications such as aspirin and Ibuprofen, you may be advised to stop taking these medications several days before your procedure.

During the procedure, you will be asked to lay face down on the table. Local anesthesia will be used to numb the area before the injection is given. Through a small incision, your doctor will insert a small, high-definition camera device (called an endoscope). This will allow him to see what’s inside your back and view your medial branch nerve. A tiny laser or radiofrequency probe will then be threaded through the endoscope to zap the nerve that causes the pain. There may be mild discomfort or pain during the procedure.

After the procedure, since this is a minimally-invasive and outpatient procedure, you will be monitored for a short time. Then, you can leave the office. It’s highly advisable to have someone with you to drive you home. You may have a follow-up visit 7 to 10 days after the procedure to ask about your symptoms and determine your level of pain.

Are you ready to find relief for your lower back pain and improve your quality of life? You may call us at (479) 521-2752 to request an appointment or click the button below.