Lumbar Radiofrequency Ablation

Name: Lumbar Radiofrequency Ablation
Creator: Edward M. DelSole, MD

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat energy to disrupt the small nerves that transmit pain signals from the facet joints. For patients with chronic facet-mediated low back pain confirmed by diagnostic blocks, RFA provides durable pain relief lasting 6 to 18 months — and the procedure can be repeated.

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Is Facet Ablation Right for You?

Lumbar RFA may be recommended if you have:

Chronic low back pain localized to the facet joints rather than radiating down the leg
Positive response to diagnostic medial branch nerve blocks with greater than 75% pain relief
Back pain worsened by extension and rotation, which are typical facet-mediated pain patterns
Pain not adequately managed by physical therapy or oral medications

What to Expect

Procedure Time

30–45 minutes

Anesthesia

Local with optional light sedation

Recovery

Resume normal activities within 1–2 days

Duration of Relief

Typically 6–18 months, repeatable

Under fluoroscopic guidance, small radiofrequency needles are placed along the medial branch nerves that supply the painful facet joints. Once correct position is confirmed with sensory and motor testing, radiofrequency energy heats the needle tip to create a precise lesion that interrupts the pain signal. The nerves eventually regenerate, but the procedure can be safely repeated when pain returns.

Why Dr. DelSole

Edward M. DelSole, MD

Dr. DelSole is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic spine surgeon with extensive experience in minimally invasive lumbar procedures. He brings a commitment to patient-centered care and evidence-based surgical decision-making.

Fellowship-trained at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute (one of the nation's top spine programs)
Board-certified, American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery
Chief Resident, NYU Langone Orthopaedic Surgery
Active member, Lumbar Spine Research Society and North American Spine Society
Published researcher with 30+ peer-reviewed publications

Tired of Chronic Back Pain? Let's Find a Solution.

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Keystone Spine & Pain Management

2607 Keiser Blvd, Suite 200

Wyomissing, PA 19610