Intervention rhizolysis

Radiofrequency rhizolysis is an outpatient surgical intervention that we perform to treat cases of disc herniation , degenerative disc disease and both cervical and lumbar facet problems in cases that do not require conventional surgical intervention.

During the intervention

With the help of the scope we will locate the spaces L4-L5 and L5-S1. We will put some local anesthesia and then apply radiofrequency.

Now we are with the electrode located between L4-L5 on the left side , the motor stimulation is noted and the main thing is that it does not radiate to the left lower extremity. The patient must note the mobility of the electrode in the motor stimulation in the area to be treated but that is not irradiated to the lower extremity. Now we go to L4-L5 right, first check the anatomical location thanks to the scope, then we will proceed to the sensory stimulation and the patient notices a pressure that is important that it does not radiate towards the leg. Now we practice motor stimulation and the mobility of the electrode is noticeable. The patient does not report pain thanks to local anesthesia and sedation applied to, only feels the touch when the electrode enters through the skin.

Now we apply the radiofrequency in L5-S1 left. Normally this technique usually lasts about 15-20 minutes with local anesthesia and sedation, then you put a little Betadine®, a dressing and you can resume your normal activity immediately. We advise you not to make efforts during 2 or 3 days.

Normally the patient goes fasting in case it is necessary to apply sedation. We recommend that the patient apply Betadine® in the area to be treated for 2 or 3 days. During 3 or 4 days it is advisable not to make efforts and perform an ambulatory control in 1 month to assess the effect of the technique.