Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) in Las Vegas
Radiofrequency ablation, or RFA, uses gentle heat to quiet the small nerves that carry pain signals from arthritic joints in the neck, back or knee. It is usually offered after a diagnostic nerve block confirms the source of pain, and relief often lasts 6 to 12 months or longer.
Who RFA Helps
RFA is a good option for long-term pain that comes from joints rather than from a pinched nerve. It is often used for:
- Arthritis in the facet joints of the neck or lower back
- Chronic back pain after a car accident or injury
- Knee pain from arthritis
- Pain that returns after injections wear off
First, a Diagnostic Block
Before RFA, Dr. Gallagher usually performs a medial branch block or similar test injection. If numbing those nerves relieves your pain, RFA is likely to help.
What to Expect
RFA is an outpatient procedure done at a surgery center. After the skin is numbed, a thin probe is guided to the target nerves with live X-ray. A mild electrical test confirms placement, and then heat is applied to quiet the nerve. Most treatments take under an hour.
Recovery and Results
Soreness at the treatment site for a few days is common. Relief usually builds over 2 to 3 weeks and often lasts 6 to 12 months or longer. Because nerves can slowly regrow, the procedure can be repeated if pain returns.
Insurance, Medicare and Personal Injury Coverage
Epion accepts most major insurance plans, Medicare, workers' compensation and personal injury liens. Some plans require prior authorization, and our team handles verification before your procedure. See the insurance plans we accept, or if you were hurt in an accident, learn how lien treatment works.
Common Questions
How long does radiofrequency ablation last?
Relief commonly lasts 6 to 12 months and sometimes longer. Nerves can regrow over time, and RFA can be repeated if pain returns.
Is radiofrequency ablation painful?
The area is numbed before the procedure, and many patients receive light sedation. Soreness for a few days afterward is common and usually managed with ice and over-the-counter medication.
Who is a candidate for RFA?
People with chronic neck, back or knee pain from arthritic joints who had good short-term relief from a diagnostic nerve block, such as a medial branch block, are usually good candidates.
Does insurance cover radiofrequency ablation?
Medicare and most insurance plans cover RFA when a diagnostic block confirms the pain source. Accident patients can be treated on a personal injury lien.
Talk With Dr. Gallagher
Dr. Gallagher is board certified in Pain Medicine and personally sees every patient at every visit. We accept most insurance plans, Medicare, workers' comp and personal injury liens.