More Search Tools: Doctors Videos
Pain Management
Welcome to Spine-health’s Pain Management patient community. You can also read doctor approved Pain Management Articles.
1 reply [Last post]
User offline. Last seen 1 year 48 weeks ago. Offline
Joined: 01/03/2010
Posts: 9
Points: 18
question about facet ablation

when you had a facet ablation, how did the md make certain that he was in the right spot?

i had the procedure done. i was told to tell WHEN i felt a tingling from the probe, and WHEN i felt a muscle twitch. I was never asked WHERE the tingling/twitching occurred.

Is this normal? does it sound like a step might have been left out?

I'm having some problems, which is why I ask.

Thanks.

User offline. Last seen 21 weeks 5 days ago. Offline
Joined: 08/16/2009
Posts: 252
Points: 530
Hi Pepper

When you say, 'Facet ablation', I think you're referring to the ablation of the nerves. Assuming that's what you meant, the neurosurgeon guides the fine needle into the nerve, using a technique called 'fluoroscopy'. This is a fairly accurate process, because he/she can actually see the nerves, so can position the needle correctly.

Although the technique usually produces good results, there will always be errors, as with any surgical process.

If you're worried about any after-effects you're experiencing, I'd suggest that you contact your doctor as soon as possible. Hopefully, this will eliminate any worries you may have and assuage your fears.

Jump to: