Struggling with chronic pain in your face, head, or upper body? Stellate ganglion pulsed RFA could be the solution you’re looking for.
What Is Stellate Ganglion Pulsed RFA?
This minimally invasive procedure targets the stellate ganglion, a group of nerves in your neck that play a role in pain and inflammation in the upper body. Pulsed RFA delivers gentle electrical energy to these nerves, reducing their sensitivity without damaging them.
Who Can Benefit from Stellate Ganglion Pulsed RFA?
It’s ideal for people with:
- Chronic pain in the face, neck, or arms
- Pain from conditions like complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) or post-shingles neuralgia
- Migraines or vascular headaches linked to overactive nerves
How Does the Procedure Work?
- Preparation: You’ll lie on your back, and the area will be numbed with a local anesthetic. Sedation is optional.
- During the Procedure: Using ultrasound guidance, a thin needle is carefully placed near the stellate ganglion. Pulsed RFA energy is then applied to calm the nerves. Small amount of local anesthetics and steroid is also injected to enhance the effect.
- Time: The entire procedure takes about 20-30 minutes.
What Can You Expect After the Procedure?
- Some immediate relief may be felt, with improvement over days to weeks.
- Effects can last several months and may improve further with repeated treatments.
- Temporary side effects like ptosis, hoarseness, or facial warmth typically resolve within hours.
- You might feel some soreness, which typically resolves within a few days.
What Should You Do After the Procedure?
- Avoid strenuous activities for 24 hours.
- Monitor for any unusual symptoms and follow up with your doctor as needed.
- Resume normal activities the next day unless instructed otherwise.
Compiled by;Rarinthorn Choomsai Na Ayuthaya, M.D. Interventional Pain Specialist
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