What is Sacroiliac Joint Radiofrequency Ablation?
Sacroiliac radiofrequency ablation (SI RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure designed to relieve chronic pain originating from the sacroiliac joint. This joint, located at the base of the spine where the sacrum connects to the iliac bones of the pelvis, can become a source of pain due to inflammation, injury, or degenerative conditions. The procedure uses radiofrequency energy to disrupt nerve signals from the sacroiliac joint, reducing pain and improving mobility.
Who Would Need Sacroiliac Radiofrequency Ablation?
Sacroiliac RFA is typically recommended for individuals experiencing:
- Chronic Lower Back or Buttock Pain: Pain originating from the sacroiliac joint that does not respond to conservative treatments.
- Sacroiliitis: Inflammation of the sacroiliac joint leading to pain and stiffness.
- Previous Sacroiliac Joint Injury: Trauma or repetitive strain causing persistent discomfort.
- Arthritis or Degenerative Joint Disease: Conditions like osteoarthritis that cause joint deterioration.
- Pain Not Relieved by Other Treatments: Patients who have tried physiotherapy, medications, or injections without lasting relief.
Your doctor may perform diagnostic tests, including sacroiliac joint injections, to confirm that your pain originates from this area before recommending the procedure.
How is Sacroiliac Radiofrequency Ablation Performed?
The procedure is usually done under local anaesthesia and mild sedation. The key steps include:
- Patient Positioning: The patient lies face down on a procedure table.
- Guided Needle Placement: Using fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray) or ultrasound, the doctor inserts a thin needle near the affected nerves in the sacroiliac joint.
- Nerve Testing: A mild electrical current is applied to ensure the correct nerves are targeted.
- Radiofrequency Ablation: Once confirmed, controlled radiofrequency energy is delivered to heat and disrupt the pain-transmitting nerves.
- Completion and Recovery: The needle is removed, and a small bandage is applied. The entire procedure takes about 30 to 60 minutes.
What to Expect After the Procedure?
Recovery from sacroiliac radiofrequency ablation is typically quick, with most patients experiencing relief within a few weeks.
- Mild Soreness: Some discomfort or swelling at the injection site for a few days.
- Pain Relief Timeline: Full pain relief may take up to three weeks as the treated nerves stop transmitting pain signals.
- Activity Restrictions: Patients are usually advised to avoid strenuous activities for a few days but can resume normal activities gradually.
- Long-Lasting Effects: Pain relief can last from several months to over a year, though individual results vary.
Sacroiliac radiofrequency ablation offers an effective, non-surgical option for managing chronic sacroiliac joint pain, improving mobility, and enhancing overall quality of life. If you suffer from persistent lower back or pelvic pain, consult your doctor to determine if this procedure is right for you.