Rhizotomy

Rhizotomy is one of the more recently developed procedures for eliminating back pain and referred pain caused by nerve impingement. When the neural pathways are injured or surrounding tissue is damaged enough to create a continual-pain response, such as in whiplash, it may be very difficult to break the cycle of inflammation and pain. Prolotherapy, in which the joints are injected with a stimulating fluid, works for some of these patients. Other victims of back pain or referred pain may find relief through rhizotomy.

Rhizotomy is a state-of-the-art laser surgery that deadens the sensory nerves that carry pain. They create a physical barrier to the transmission of pain, making it impossible in that local area. The drawback, of course, is that normal stimuli will not be detected, but this may be a secondary concern when pain is severe or chronic. Rhizotomy is sometimes the final choice for management of pain related to cancer or undiagnosed illness.

Rhizotomy and Discectomy Procedures to Relieve Pain

Even though rhizotomy is a mildly invasive procedure, other applicable treatments should be tried first. In trauma situations, pain may be severe yet fleeting. The inflammation should be given time to subside and symptoms monitored for frequency and intensity.

Diagnosis of pain-related conditions is thorough and specific at the Bonati Institute. Alternative treatments are considered and comprehensive care is available, including surgical procedures to alleviate pain from nerve impingement. Endoscopic discectomy treats discs to relieve neural pressure. Laser rhizotomy targets the nerve roots themselves and enjoys upwards of a 75-percent success rate.