Redmond, OR
A 41-year-old female asked:
I have had 4 surgeries related to my back the last being unsuccessful. a pain specialist is recommending cauterizing a couple of nerves to give me some pain relief. i have hemiparaplegia and use a wheelchair should i give it a try, i would give anything
1 doctor answer • 3 doctors weighed in
Dr. Chan Hwanganswered
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation 29 years experience
Caution advised: In the years I have been practicing I have yet to see anyone with significant lasting improvement after radio frequency ablation which is used to cauterize the small nerves supplying sensation to the spine. Assess the risks versus benefits carefully before deciding.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Faisal Sayeed commented
Anesthesiology 33 years experience
Patient selection is important , medial branch blocks with more then 70% pain relief after the block generally guides whether R F A will be success ful or not , usall should give you pain relief forapprox 7 to 8 months
Aug 19, 2012
Last updated Aug 27, 2013
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