At Gerling Spine Care and Research Institute, we offer Medial Branch Nerve Resection Rhizotomy as an effective treatment for chronic back pain caused by facet joint arthritis or other degenerative spinal conditions. This minimally invasive procedure targets the nerves responsible for pain, providing long-term relief and restoring function.
The Medial Branch Nerve Resection Rhizotomy Procedure
Medial Branch Nerve Resection Rhizotomy is performed under local anesthesia and sedation to ensure patient comfort. The procedure typically takes place on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can return home the same day. The procedure begins with the surgeon locating the medial branch nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals from the affected facet joints. Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, a small needle is carefully inserted near the nerve. Once the nerve is located, the surgeon either ablates (damages) or resects (removes) the nerve to stop it from sending pain signals. This interruption of pain transmission significantly reduces inflammation and alleviates discomfort, providing long-term relief. While traditional surgery often requires larger incisions and a lengthy recovery period, Medial Branch Nerve Resection Rhizotomy uses a minimally invasive approach, which means smaller incisions, less tissue disruption, and a quicker recovery.