(This is the section that explains the detail of the operation or procedure above and should be read in conjunction with the section called your back operation).

A lumbar RFR is performed for a pain that is caused by damaged facet joints. The aim of the operation is to paralyse the very small nerves that supply the facet joint of pain sensation. This will then bring partial or complete (but temporary) relief of the pain, spasm and referred pain that these damaged facet joints can cause.

The reason that your surgeon performs this procedure and not a larger operation is because he or she is trying to be as conservative as possible in doing your surgery. The aim is to treat your symptoms without resorting to large open operation. Consult a surgeon that is proficient in these techniques as well as the usual open surgery techniques.

When undergoing this procedure, you will be lying on your stomach on bolsters or pillows during your procedure. Your surgeon will use a X-ray machine to guide the needles that is used to do the procedures with. A very thin electrode is inserted through the needle and the nerve that supplies your facet joint is stunned or damaged by radiofrequency generated by a radiofrequency generator.

These are not important nerves and it is not dangerous to shock them with radiofrequency pulses. When inactivated, these nerves cannot conduct pain sensations from the joint to the brain. This means that the pain sensation from the facet joints decrease or clear completely up. This is however a temporary effect and the treatment as to be repeated when the pain returns.

Some of the effects are immediate but it is usual that you experience pain about two to three weeks after the procedure. Maximum pain relief is usually experienced at about six weeks after the procedure. The effects can last for a year or more.
Not all people have relief from this procedure and the success rate is quoted as being between 40% and 75%.

Ward care

You may sometimes have a bit of discomfort directly following the procedure, but this will clear up very soon. You will be allowed to move around freely following your procedure.

Discharge

This procedure is usually performed as a day procedure, although in some cases patients may sleep over.

Rehabilitation

It is incredibly important to get a lot of rest and exercise following your surgery. It is frequently useful to supplement your treatment with physiotherapy and local treatment such as massage therapy and chiropractic treatment.

Follow up

You will usually be seen after six weeks but will be seen earlier if there are any complications. It is important to realise that you will have to protect your back the rest of your life with good back habits. See the section on exercises to see what you can do to keep your back healthy.