Radiofrequency Ablation in Delhi | Long-Lasting Pain Relief at Eshna Pain & Palliative Centre

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is one of the most effective and durable interventional pain procedures available. It uses controlled heat energy to interrupt pain-carrying nerve fibers — providing relief that can last 9–18 months or longer. At Eshna Pain & Palliative Centre, RFA is performed under imaging guidance by fellowship-trained pain specialists.

How Does Radiofrequency Ablation Work?

A thin needle electrode is placed under imaging guidance adjacent to the targeted nerve. Radiofrequency energy is delivered through the electrode tip, generating a localized heat lesion (70–80°C) that interrupts the nerve's ability to transmit pain signals to the brain. The procedure does not damage surrounding structures, blood vessels, or motor nerves when performed correctly. 

Types of RFA

•        Conventional (Thermal) RFA: Creates a heat lesion. Used for facet joint pain, sacroiliac joint pain, knee genicular nerves, and cancer pain

•        Pulsed Radiofrequency (PRF): Uses intermittent pulses producing neuromodulation rather than tissue destruction. Used for nerve root pain (sciatica, cervical radiculopathy), and dorsal root ganglion

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS — RFA TREATMENT DELHI NCR

Q1. What is radiofrequency ablation (RFA)?

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat energy generated by radio waves to deactivate specific nerves that transmit pain signals. It provides long-lasting pain relief without surgery.

Q2. How does RFA work for pain?

A thin needle is guided to the target nerve under fluoroscopy (X-ray) guidance. Radiofrequency energy heats the nerve tip to approximately 80°C, creating a small lesion that interrupts pain signal transmission for months to years.

Q3. What conditions does Eshna treat with RFA?

We use RFA for chronic facet joint pain (neck, thoracic, lumbar spine), sacroiliac joint pain, knee pain (genicular nerve RFA), hip pain, trigeminal neuralgia, occipital neuralgia, and cancer pain management.

Q4. What is medial branch RFA for back and neck pain?

Medial branch RFA targets the small nerves supplying the facet joints of the spine. After a positive diagnostic medial branch block confirms the facet joints as the pain source, RFA is performed for long-lasting relief.

Q5. How long does RFA pain relief last?

RFA typically provides pain relief for 6 months to 2 years. As nerves regenerate over time, pain may gradually return. The procedure can be safely repeated when relief diminishes.

Q6. Is RFA different from radiofrequency thermocoagulation for trigeminal neuralgia?

Radiofrequency thermocoagulation (RFT) for trigeminal neuralgia is a specific application of RFA technology targeting the trigeminal nerve's Gasserian ganglion. The principle is the same but the technique and target are specialised.

Q7. What is pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) and how is it different?

Pulsed radiofrequency delivers radiofrequency energy in pulses rather than continuously, modulating nerve pain signals without destroying nerve tissue. It is preferred for sensory nerves where preserving function is important.

Q8. Is RFA safe?

RFA is a well-established, evidence-based procedure. When performed by an experienced pain specialist under fluoroscopy guidance, it has excellent safety profile. Serious complications are rare.

Q9. What should I expect during an RFA procedure?

The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia with light sedation. It takes 30–60 minutes. You may feel warmth or brief discomfort during energy delivery. Most patients go home the same day and resume activities within 24–48 hours.

Q10. How will I know if RFA will work for me?

Diagnostic nerve blocks (medial branch blocks, genicular nerve blocks) are performed first to confirm the target nerve is causing your pain. A 50–80% reduction in pain after the diagnostic block predicts good RFA response.

Q11. Can RFA be done on multiple levels at once?

Yes. RFA can be performed at multiple spinal levels (e.g., L3-L4, L4-L5, L5-S1) or bilaterally in the same session, depending on the patient's condition and pain distribution.

Q12. Is RFA covered by insurance in India?

Coverage varies by insurance provider and policy. Eshna's team can provide documentation to support insurance claims. Contact us for guidance on your specific insurer's requirements.

Q13. What is the difference between RFA and surgery for back pain?

RFA is a minimally invasive day procedure with local anaesthesia, no incision, and rapid recovery. Surgery involves general anaesthesia, incision, longer recovery, and higher risk. RFA avoids surgery for many patients.

Q14. Can RFA be repeated?

Yes. RFA can be safely repeated when pain returns as nerves regenerate, typically every 6–18 months. Repeat procedures are generally as effective as the initial treatment.

Q15. How do I get RFA treatment in Delhi NCR?

Contact Eshna Pain & Palliative Centre at +91 9811088148. Our pain specialists perform fluoroscopy-guided RFA for spine pain, joint pain, and neuropathic pain conditions across Delhi NCR.