1.History/Development of Radiofrequency Ablation (Chronic Pain)
2.Mechanism of Action of Radiofrequency Ablation
3. Types of Radiofrequency Ablation
a. Pulsed RFA
b. Cool RFA
c. Monopolar/Bipolar
4.Diagnosis/Indications
a. Cervical Pain
i. Anatomy
ii. Work-up
iii. Technique (Diagnostic Block/RFA)
iv. Potential Complications
v. Long-Term Outcomes
b. Thoracic Pain
i. Anatomy
ii. Work-up
iii. Technique (Diagnostic Block/RFA)
iv. Potential Complications
v. Long-Term Outcomes
c. Lumbar Pain
i. Anatomy
ii. Work-up
iii. Technique (Diagnostic Block/RFA)
iv. Potential Complications
v. Long-Term Outcomes
d. Joint Pain
i. Knee/Hip/Shoulder
ii. Anatomy
iii. Work-up
iv. Technique (Diagnostic Block/RFA)
v. Potential Complications
vi. Long-Term Outcomes
e. Spinal Metastasis
i. Anatomy
ii. Work-up
iii. Technique (RFA)
iv. Potential Complications
v. Long-Term Outcomes
5.Future Indications
6.Recommended Reading
Timothy R. Deer, MD
The Spine and Nerve Center of the Virginias
Charleston, West Virginia
Nomen Azeem, MD, FAAPMR
Florida Spine & Pain Specialists
Tampa, Florida
This book provides a comprehensive review of the development of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for the treatment of chronic pain.
The book consists of three sections; it begins with the foundations of RFA by examining its history, development, mechanisms of action, and types. The second section explores various indications for RFA, including cervical pain, spinal metastasis, vertebral body, and hip joint pain. The final section then discusses the utilization of peripheral nerve ablation. The book concludes with future indications and forward-looking options for these therapies.
Essentials of Radiofrequency Ablation of the Spine and Joints is a forward-looking resource that recognizes the expanding field of RFA indications and new tools for ablation.