Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA):

Lasting relief from pain—without surgery or drugs

RFA is a well-established, drug-free pain management solution that is clinically proven to provide safe, effective relief from pain.

How does RFA work?

RFA is a simple, minimally invasive outpatient procedure. Your pain management specialist targets pain-causing nerves and uses thermal energy to interrupt the pain signals at their source. Local anesthesia and a mild sedative may be used to reduce discomfort during the procedure.

Target the Nerve

X-ray or ultrasound imaging helps guide a special probe to the target nerve. Electrodes stimulate nerves near the area to help determine the optimal treatment locations.

Disable the Nerve

The electrodes then send a small radiofrequency current into the surrounding tissue. This heats the tissue and disables the nerve so it stops sending pain signals.

Repeat for Multiple Pain Areas

Generally, one to four nerves are targeted in one procedure to maximize pain relief.

How does RFA fit my pain?

The RFA procedure can target multiple pain areas in a single treatment. So if your pain occurs in several parts of your body, RFA can address them all simultaneously. It works well for pain in your:

  • Neck
  • Shoulder
  • Back
  • Lower back
  • Hip
  • Leg
  • Knee
  • Foot

Is it safe?

RFA treatment tends to be well tolerated and has few associated complications. After the procedure, you may experience a few days of discomfort around the procedure site(s). Over the next few weeks, your pain should subside, allowing you to return to the activities you enjoyed before the onset of your pain.

Is it effective?

Patients who respond well to RFA can expect pain relief that lasts from six to 18 months. The treated nerves will regenerate and, if the pain returns, the procedure can be repeated. Talk to your doctor to see if pain relief with Boston Scientific Radiofrequency Ablation is right for you. Your doctor can perform a simple in-office test to show if RFA may be a good option for you.

Real-world results

Studies show that more than 70% of patients treated with RFA experience relief—lasting anywhere from six to 12 months, and in some cases, years.1-3

Track your pain treatment and symptoms

For people like you living with pain, the PainScale app is a powerful tool. It’s designed specifically to help you:

  • Track key measures such as pain levels, activities, treatments, medications, symptoms, and more
  • Learn about treatment options, exercises, and other tips that may help improve your quality of life
  • Connect and share your progress with your pain management specialist to help tailor a treatment plan that’s right for you

Wondering if radiofrequency ablation may be right for you?

Take this quick quiz and find out.