What We Do > Diagnostic and Therapeutic Spinal and Joint Injection > Facet Joint Rhizotomy
Rhizotomy is an advanced therapeutic procedure designed to decrease or eliminate pain or symptoms arising from degenerative facet joints. The procedure involves destroying the tiny nerves that supply the facet joints. This can be performed by radiofrequency (RF) and burning the nerve. Phenol may also be used to chemically burn the nerve. Currently at DIG we use phenol. If you become a candidate for facet rhizotomy, your Doctor will explain the procedure and differences between the two techniques in more detail.
For more information on preparing for a rhizotomy:
- A representative will contact you prior to your appointment to review your medications and complete registration.
- Be sure to let your doctors know if you are taking blood thinnners (Aspirin, Lovenox, Plavix, Heparin, or Coumadin). You MAY be asked to stop this medication 5 days before your procedure. You may resume the medication the day after your procedure.
- You will need to arrange for a driver to take you home.
- Nothing to eat or drink 2 hours prior to your appointment if your procedure is in the lumbar or thoracic region and 4 hours if your procedure is in the cervical (neck) region.
- The joint to be studied will be injected with contrast dye,local anesthetic and steroid. If you have an allergy to any of these medications please notify our representative, scheduler, or nurse as soon as possible.
- Pain relief is usually immediate but there may be post procedural soreness for a few days. If you experience soreness at your injection site, this can usually be managed with over the counter pain analgesics such as ibuprofen or aspirin. Cold ice packs 3-4 times daily for several days are also effective. You may take your own pain medication if it is already prescribed by your referring physician.
- If you develop fever or severe pain contact our office at 352.333.7(VIP) or call your referring physician. After hours or on week-ends, go to the nearest emergency room or call North Florida Regional Medical Center at 352.333.4000 and ask for the Radiologist on Call.
- You can return to light activity the day of your procedure and avoid strenuous activity or physical therapy for the next 3 days.
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Vascular & Interventional Physicians
6685 NW 9th Blvd Gainesville, FL 32605
Phone: 352.333.7VIP (7847)
Direct Spine Line: 352. 313. 6873
Fax: 352.333.0990
Hours: 7:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Monday - Friday
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