Interventional procedure

Radiofrequency Denervation

Conventional (thermal) and pulsed · Long-lasting relief without surgery

Check availability

The procedure

What is radiofrequency denervation?

Radiofrequency denervation is a minimally invasive procedure that applies electromagnetic energy to interrupt the pain signal in specific nerves. There are two modalities: conventional (thermal), which creates a controlled lesion in the nerve for prolonged relief, and pulsed, which modulates the nerve without destroying it — ideal for nerves with mixed sensory and motor function.

Indications

For which conditions?

  • Lumbar and cervical facet pain (spinal arthritis)
  • Facet syndrome
  • Knee pain (genicular nerves)
  • Occipital neuralgia
  • Trigeminal neuralgia
  • Sacroiliac pain

In the procedure room

How a radiofrequency denervation is performed

Procedure guided by real-time fluoroscopy. The needles are positioned with millimeter precision over the target nerve.

Radiofrequency denervation guided by fluoroscopy — minimally invasive procedure
Insertion of radiofrequency needles with real-time image guidance

Electrode positioning under fluoroscopic guidance

Radiofrequency needles positioned over the treatment area

Electrodes in final position · Minimal incisions

The process

How is the denervation performed?

A special needle is placed using fluoroscopic or ultrasound guidance up to the target nerve. The position is confirmed with stimulation and then radiofrequency energy is applied. The procedure takes between 30 and 60 minutes, is performed under light sedation, and the patient returns home the same day.

Advantages

Why choose this treatment

Minimally invasive

No open surgery or hospitalization

Long-lasting results

Relief from 6 months to 2 years in most cases

Image-guided

Maximum precision and safety with fluoroscopy or ultrasound

Outpatient

The patient goes home the same day of the procedure

Could this procedure help you?

In the first consultation we evaluate if you are a candidate and design the appropriate plan for your case.

Book appointment

Frequently asked questions

Most frequently asked questions

Is the procedure painful?

It is performed with light sedation and local anesthesia, so it is well tolerated. There may be mild discomfort in the following days.

How long does relief last?

In most cases between 12 and 24 months. If pain returns, the procedure can be repeated.

Who is a candidate?

Patients with diagnosed pain in facet joints, knee, peripheral nerves, or other structures identified as the pain source who have not responded to conservative treatment.

When are results noticeable?

Relief can be immediate or gradual within the first 2–4 weeks, depending on the nerve treated.

Conditions treated with this procedure