Cooled Radiofrequency Ablation in Hyderabad
Advanced minimally invasive procedure for long-lasting chronic pain relief through targeted nerve ablation
Contact:+91-9778280044 •hellodr@drsayuj.info •Appointments
What is Cooled Radiofrequency Ablation?
Cooled radiofrequency ablation (cooled RFA) is an advanced, minimally invasive procedure that uses cooled radiofrequency energy to create larger, more effective lesions on targeted nerves, providing long-lasting pain relief for chronic pain conditions. Unlike traditional radiofrequency ablation, the cooling technology allows for larger treatment zones while protecting surrounding tissues.
This innovative technique is particularly effective for treating facet joint pain, sacroiliac joint pain, and certain types of trigeminal neuralgia. The procedure can provide pain relief lasting 12-24 months, significantly longer than traditional RFA treatments.
Key Advantage: Cooled RFA creates lesions up to 3-4 times larger than traditional RFA, resulting in more comprehensive nerve coverage and longer-lasting pain relief.
How Cooled RFA Works
Technology
- • Water-cooled radiofrequency probe
- • Precise temperature control (60-80°C)
- • Real-time monitoring via fluoroscopy
- • Larger lesion creation (up to 8mm diameter)
- • Tissue protection through cooling
Mechanism
- • Radiofrequency energy heats nerve tissue
- • Cooling prevents charring and tissue damage
- • Creates controlled nerve lesion
- • Interrupts pain signal transmission
- • Provides long-term pain relief
Conditions Treated
Facet Joint Pain
Chronic lower back or neck pain originating from facet joints, often caused by arthritis or injury.
- • Cervical facet joint pain
- • Lumbar facet joint pain
- • Thoracic facet joint pain
Sacroiliac Joint Pain
Pain in the sacroiliac joints connecting the spine to the pelvis, often causing lower back and hip pain.
- • SI joint dysfunction
- • Post-surgical SI joint pain
- • Inflammatory SI joint conditions
Trigeminal Neuralgia
Severe facial pain caused by trigeminal nerve irritation, when other treatments have failed.
- • Atypical trigeminal neuralgia
- • Refractory facial pain
- • Post-herpetic neuralgia
Benefits of Cooled Radiofrequency Ablation
Clinical Advantages
- • Longer-lasting pain relief (12-24 months vs 6-12 months)
- • Larger treatment area coverage
- • Higher success rates (85-90%)
- • Reduced need for repeat procedures
- • Better outcomes for complex pain patterns
Patient Benefits
- • Minimally invasive outpatient procedure
- • No general anesthesia required
- • Quick recovery (same-day discharge)
- • Reduced medication dependence
- • Improved quality of life
Who is a Candidate?
Ideal Candidates
- • Chronic pain lasting 6+ months
- • Positive response to diagnostic nerve blocks
- • Failed conservative treatments (medications, physiotherapy)
- • Confirmed diagnosis via imaging (MRI/CT)
- • No active infection or bleeding disorders
- • Realistic expectations about outcomes
Pre-Procedure Evaluation
- • Comprehensive medical history review
- • Physical examination
- • Diagnostic imaging (MRI/CT scan)
- • Diagnostic nerve block (to confirm source)
- • Discussion of risks and benefits
- • Review of alternative treatments
The Procedure
Preparation
Patient positioned on fluoroscopy table. Local anesthesia administered at the entry site. Sedation may be provided for comfort.
Needle Placement
Under fluoroscopic guidance, a specialized needle is precisely positioned near the target nerve using anatomical landmarks and imaging.
Sensory Testing
Low-voltage electrical stimulation confirms correct needle placement by reproducing the patient's pain pattern.
Cooled RFA Application
The cooled radiofrequency probe is inserted, and controlled heating (60-80°C) is applied for 2.5-3 minutes per lesion. Cooling prevents tissue charring while creating larger lesions.
Multiple Lesions
Multiple lesions may be created to cover the entire nerve distribution, ensuring comprehensive pain relief.
Recovery
Patient monitored for 30-60 minutes, then discharged. Most patients can resume normal activities the next day.
Recovery Timeline
Day of Procedure
Outpatient procedure, discharge same day. Rest and avoid strenuous activity.
Days 1-3
Mild soreness at injection site. Ice packs and over-the-counter pain relief as needed.
Week 1
Return to normal activities. Pain relief typically begins within 1-2 weeks.
Weeks 2-4
Maximum pain relief achieved. Follow-up appointment to assess outcomes.
Cooled RFA vs Traditional RFA
| Feature | Cooled RFA | Traditional RFA |
|---|---|---|
| Lesion Size | Up to 8mm diameter | 2-3mm diameter |
| Pain Relief Duration | 12-24 months | 6-12 months |
| Success Rate | 85-90% | 70-80% |
| Repeat Procedures | Less frequent | More frequent |
| Procedure Time | 45-90 minutes | 30-60 minutes |
| Cost | Higher (but better value) | Lower |
Risks and Complications
Cooled radiofrequency ablation is generally safe with low complication rates when performed by experienced specialists. Potential risks include:
- • Temporary soreness at injection site (common, resolves in 1-3 days)
- • Bruising or swelling at needle insertion site (rare, resolves quickly)
- • Numbness or weakness (rare, usually temporary)
- • Infection at injection site (<1% risk)
- • Nerve injury (<1% risk with experienced operator)
- • Incomplete pain relief (10-15% of cases may require repeat procedure)
Note: Dr. Sayuj Krishnan's extensive experience with interventional pain procedures ensures optimal safety and outcomes. All procedures are performed under fluoroscopic guidance with strict sterile technique.
Related Information
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does cooled RFA pain relief last?
Cooled radiofrequency ablation typically provides pain relief lasting 12-24 months, significantly longer than traditional RFA (6-12 months). Some patients may experience relief for even longer periods.
Is cooled RFA painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia with optional sedation for comfort. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure. Some temporary soreness at the injection site is normal for 1-3 days after the procedure.
How is cooled RFA different from traditional RFA?
Cooled RFA uses water-cooled probes that create larger lesions (up to 8mm vs 2-3mm) while preventing tissue charring. This results in more comprehensive nerve coverage, longer-lasting pain relief, and higher success rates compared to traditional RFA.
When will I feel pain relief after the procedure?
Most patients begin to experience pain relief within 1-2 weeks after the procedure. Maximum pain relief is typically achieved within 2-4 weeks as the nerve lesion fully develops.
Can cooled RFA be repeated if pain returns?
Yes, cooled RFA can be repeated if pain returns after the initial treatment period. However, because cooled RFA provides longer-lasting relief, repeat procedures are typically needed less frequently than with traditional RFA.
Is cooled RFA covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans cover cooled radiofrequency ablation when medically necessary and performed for appropriate indications. Coverage may vary, so it's best to verify with your insurance provider. Our team can assist with insurance pre-authorization.
Ready to Explore Cooled RFA for Your Pain?
Dr. Sayuj Krishnan provides expert evaluation and personalized treatment plans for chronic pain conditions using advanced cooled radiofrequency ablation techniques.
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Clinical References
- International Spine Intervention Society – Radiofrequency Neurotomy Guidelines
- American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians – Radiofrequency Ablation
- Pain Medicine Journal – Cooled Radiofrequency Ablation for Chronic Pain
- North American Spine Society – Interventional Pain Procedures
External links are provided for transparency and do not represent sponsorships. Each source was accessed on 19 Oct 2025.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Sayuj KrishnanConsultant Neurosurgeon, Yashoda Hospital MalakpetLast reviewed 15 January 2025
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Please consult with Dr. Sayuj for personalized medical guidance.