Are you suffering from chronic pain that medication isn't adequately addressing? Interventional radiology offers targeted, minimally-invasive solutions that can provide lasting relief without the side effects of long-term medication use. At Tanner Health, our advanced imaging techniques allow us to precisely target pain sources with remarkable accuracy.
What is interventional radiology for pain management?
Interventional radiology uses medical imaging (ultrasound, fluoroscopy and CT scans) to guide minimally invasive procedures that treat pain directly at its source. These techniques offer a middle ground between medication and surgery, with shorter recovery times and fewer complications.
Nerve ablation procedures: Long-lasting relief for chronic pain
Nerve ablation procedures effectively interrupt pain signals by targeting specific nerves responsible for discomfort. Two primary techniques include:
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA)
RFA uses controlled heat delivered through a specialized needle to create a precise lesion on pain-transmitting nerves. This technique is highly effective for:
- Facet joint pain in the spine
- Sacroiliac joint pain
- Certain types of peripheral nerve pain
Cryoablation
Unlike RFA, cryoablation uses extreme cold to block pain signals. Many patients with neuropathic pain conditions find this approach provides significant relief with potentially less tissue damage than heat-based methods.
Most patients experience pain relief lasting 6 to 12 months following nerve ablation procedures, with some reporting benefits extending several years.
Spinal injections: Targeted anti-inflammatory treatment
Spinal injections deliver powerful anti-inflammatory medications directly where they're needed most. Common injection options include:
- Epidural steroid injections
These injections introduce anti-inflammatory corticosteroids into the epidural space surrounding irritated nerve roots. They provide substantial relief for:
- Herniated discs
- Spinal stenosis
- Radiculopathy (pinched nerves)
- Facet joint injections
When the small joints connecting your vertebrae become inflamed due to arthritis or injury, these targeted injections can significantly reduce pain while helping identify the exact pain source.
- Selective nerve root blocks
For patients with pain from compressed nerves as they exit the spine, these injections provide precise relief while confirming which specific nerve contributes to their symptoms.
Why choose interventional radiology for pain management?
- Precision targeting: Image guidance ensures treatment reaches exactly where it's needed
- Minimally invasive: Most procedures require only a needle insertion
- Reduced medication dependence: May decrease or eliminate the need for pain medications
- Diagnostic benefits: Many procedures help confirm the exact source of pain
- Complementary approach: Works well alongside other treatments like physical therapy
The future of interventional pain management
Emerging technologies continue enhancing our ability to target pain generators with unprecedented precision. Newer techniques like cooled radiofrequency ablation and pulsed radiofrequency show promise for providing longer-lasting relief with fewer side effects.
Take the next step toward pain relief
If you're struggling with chronic pain that hasn't responded adequately to medication, interventional radiology procedures may offer the relief you've been seeking without the risks of major surgery or ongoing medication use.
Patients seeking more information about interventional radiology services should speak with their primary care physician or specialist about a referral.