Radiofrequency Ablation for Neck Pain
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores whether muscle twitching in the neck during cervical radiofrequency ablation (RFA) can predict the treatment's effectiveness for neck pain relief. RFA helps individuals with cervical facet arthropathy, a condition causing persistent neck pain due to joint issues. Researchers will monitor participants for muscle twitches during the procedure to determine if these twitches indicate better pain relief. Individuals with neck pain lasting more than three months and who have previously experienced significant pain relief from specific nerve block procedures may be suitable for this study.
As a Phase 2 trial, this research focuses on measuring the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group, offering participants a chance to contribute to important advancements in neck pain management.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that this method is safe for cervical RFA procedures?
Research has shown that cervical radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is generally safe, but it does carry some risks, like any medical procedure. Common side effects include temporary pain or a burning sensation at the procedure site. Some individuals might also experience numbness or dizziness, but these symptoms usually resolve within a few days to weeks.
More serious risks, although rare, can include damage to nerves or tissues due to the proximity of the RFA needle during the procedure. Bleeding and infection are also possible but less common.
Overall, most individuals tolerate cervical RFA well. Discussing any concerns with a doctor is important to make an informed decision.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Cervical Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is unique because it offers a targeted approach to treating neck pain by using heat generated from radio waves to disrupt nerve function. Unlike traditional treatments like medications or physical therapy, which manage symptoms, RFA aims to provide longer-term pain relief by addressing the nerve pathways directly. Researchers are excited about this treatment because it allows for precise targeting of the affected nerves, potentially reducing recovery time and minimizing the need for ongoing medication.
What evidence suggests that cervical RFA is effective for pain relief?
Studies have shown that cervical radiofrequency ablation (RFA), which participants in this trial will receive, effectively treats neck pain caused by joint issues in the neck. Research indicates that many patients feel significant relief after the treatment, with over 80% experiencing noticeable pain reduction in some studies. Cervical RFA is also considered safe and involves only a minor procedure, making it a promising option for managing long-term pain. These findings suggest that cervical RFA can reliably reduce chronic neck pain.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Eric Wang, MD
Principal Investigator
Johns Hopkins University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo cervical radiofrequency ablation (RFA) with sensory and motor stimulation testing
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Extended Follow-up
Participants continue to be monitored for long-term outcomes and effectiveness
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Cervical Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
How Is the Trial Designed?
1
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Only patients who have already been deemed candidates by their primary pain physician for cervical RFA will be recruited to the study. During the cervical RFA procedure, all patients will undergo sensory and motor stimulation testing prior to receiving radiofrequency lesioning, which is a standard and recommended practice.
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Johns Hopkins University
Lead Sponsor
Citations
Assessment of real-world, prospective outcomes in patients ...
Outcomes in a subset of patients who underwent repeat RFA (n = 18) were comparable to those of the overall cohort. These long-term findings are ...
ID# 1884634 Clinical Outcomes Using Cervical ...
This represents a sustained ∼4.0-point NRS pain score improvement versus baseline measurement. Greater than 80% percent of subjects reported a improvement ( ...
Outcomes of cooled radiofrequency ablation of cervical ...
This study supports the potential efficacy of c-RFA as a minimally invasive treatment for chronic neck pain secondary to cervical facet ...
THE EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF RADIOFREQUENCY ...
Our data indicates that TRFA is a safe and effective treatment for cervical facet joint-related pain lasting for at least six months. Partial recurrence of pain ...
5.
digitalscholar.lsuhsc.edu
digitalscholar.lsuhsc.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1115&context=sommrdRetrospective Review of Efficacy of Repeated ...
Our data demonstrates that while RFA is an effective means of pain management for patients with facet-related cervical, lumbar, or sacroiliac joint arthropathy ...
6.
spine-health.com
spine-health.com/treatment/injections/radiofrequency-ablation-rfa-side-effects-and-risksRadiofrequency Ablation (RFA) Side Effects and Risks
Potential risks of a radiofrequency ablation (RFA) procedure include nerve and tissue damage in the areas adjacent to the RFA needle.
Radiofrequency Ablation - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf
Adverse effects of thermal lesioning can include bleeding, infection, needle placement induced nerve damage, placement, and burns caused by incorrect ...
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): What It Is & Procedure
What are the side effects and risks of radiofrequency ablation (RFA)?. During the procedure, you may experience some pain or burning sensation at the site ...
Dropped head syndrome after bilateral cervical ...
Common and transient adverse effects include post-procedural pain, cutaneous numbness, dysesthesias and dizziness, lasting a few days to weeks [7,8].
Radiofrequency ablation for the cervical spine - Engle
Although generally effective, the procedure carries risks, including nerve and tissue injury. Notably, the procedure's increased utilization ...
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