Mitigate Pain Clinic – Dr Jeshnu Tople – Pain Management Specialist In Nagpur
Splanchnic Nerve RFA for Abdominal Pain
Splanchnic Nerve Radiofrequency Ablation
Effective Pain Relief for Abdominal Conditions
Introduction to Splanchnic Nerve RFA
Chronic abdominal pain can drastically reduce a person’s quality of life, especially when traditional pain management strategies fail. One effective and minimally invasive solution is Splanchnic Nerve Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA). This advanced procedure targets the splanchnic nerves to reduce pain, offering long-lasting relief for individuals with conditions such as chronic pancreatitis, abdominal cancer pain or other painful abdominal disorders.
At Mitigate Pain Clinic, we specialize in interventional pain management and use Splanchnic Nerve RFA to help patients regain control of their lives.
What Are the Splanchnic Nerves?
The splanchnic nerves are a group of nerves located in the abdomen that transmit pain signals from the abdominal organs to the brain. These nerves are responsible for carrying pain information from the stomach, liver, pancreas and intestines. When conditions such as chronic pancreatitis or abdominal tumors irritate these nerves, the result can be severe and persistent pain.
The splanchnic nerves are a group of nerves located in the abdomen that transmit pain signals from the abdominal organs to the brain. These nerves are responsible for carrying pain information from the stomach, liver, pancreas and intestines. When conditions such as chronic pancreatitis or abdominal tumors irritate these nerves, the result can be severe and persistent pain.
How Splanchnic Nerve RFA Works
Splanchnic Nerve Radiofrequency Ablation uses heat generated by radiofrequency energy to disrupt the nerve pathways responsible for transmitting pain signals.
A special needle is inserted near the splanchnic nerves, and through this needle, radiofrequency energy is delivered to create a lesion in the nerve. This stops the nerve from sending pain signals to the brain.
The procedure is minimally invasive requiring only needle prick and typically guided by imaging techniques like fluoroscopy ensuring precise placement of the needle and optimal results.
Conditions Treated by Splanchnic Nerve RFA
Splanchnic Nerve Radiofrequency Ablation is used to treat various abdominal pain conditions, including:
- Pancreatitis: A long-lasting condition causing severe inflammation and pain in the pancreas.
- Abdominal Cancer Pain: Pain resulting from tumors or cancers affecting the stomach, pancreas, liver or other abdominal organs.
- Chronic Abdominal Pain: Pain caused by a variety of gastrointestinal disorders that do not respond to traditional pain medications.
- Post-Surgical Abdominal Pain: Pain following surgeries such as pancreatic or gastric surgery.
Patients with conditions that lead to continuous abdominal pain often find relief through Splanchnic Nerve Ablation when other treatments have failed.
At Mitigate Pain Clinic, we will conduct a thorough evaluation, including medical history, physical examination and if required diagnostic tests, to determine if Splanchnic Nerve Radiofrequency Ablation is the right choice for you.
Preparing for Splanchnic Nerve RFA
Preparation for the procedure is relatively simple. You will likely be advised to:
- Stop taking blood thinners a few days before the procedure.
- Avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before the procedure.
- Arrange for transportation, as you will not be allowed to drive back home.
- Diagnostic splanchnic nerve block is usually required a day prior to the radiofrequency ablation.
Our team at Mitigate Pain Clinic will provide you with detailed pre-procedure instructions to ensure the process goes smoothly.
The Procedure: What to Expect
Splanchnic Nerve RFA is typically performed on day-care basis and involves the following steps:
- Preparation: You will lie on your stomach and the doctor will use imaging, usually fluoroscopy to locate the splanchnic nerves.
- Local Anesthesia: Local anesthetic will be applied to the skin to numb the area where the needle will be inserted.
- Needle Insertion: A thin needle is inserted through the back into the area near the splanchnic nerves.
- Radiofrequency Ablation: Once the needle is in place, radiofrequency energy is delivered to heat the nerve tissue, creating a small lesion that blocks pain signals.
Post-Procedure: After the procedure, you will be monitored for a short time before being discharged to go home.The entire procedure typically takes around 60 minutes and most patients can return home the same day.
Benefits of Splanchnic Nerve RFA
There are several benefits to choosing Splanchnic Nerve RFA at Mitigate Pain Clinic:
- Long-Lasting Pain Relief
- Minimally Invasive requiring only needle prick
- Reduced Medication Dependency
- Improved Quality of Life
- Personalised Care
Potential Risks and Side Effects
As with any medical procedure, there are risks associated with Splanchnic Nerve Radiofrequency Ablation, although serious complications are rare. Possible side effects include:
- Temporary pain at the injection site
- Soreness where the needle was inserted
- Temporary diarrhea or low blood pressure
At Mitigate Pain Clinic, we take great care to minimize any potential risks and will monitor you closely during and after the procedure.
Recovery After Splanchnic Nerve RFA
Recovery from Splanchnic Nerve RFA is typically quick, with most patients resuming normal activities within a day or two. You may experience some mild soreness or discomfort at the injection site, but this usually resolves within a few days.
In terms of pain relief, patients report feeling significantly better within a few a couple of weeks after the procedure.
Long-Term Results and Follow-Up Care
The results of Splanchnic Nerve RFA can last anywhere from months to years, depending on the underlying condition and individual response to treatment. Some patients may require follow-up treatments if the pain returns over time. Regular follow-up appointments at Mitigate Pain Clinic will ensure that your pain management plan is working effectively.
Conclusion
Splanchnic Nerve Radiofrequency Ablation is a highly effective and minimally invasive treatment option for individuals suffering from chronic abdominal pain. At Mitigate Pain Clinic, our experienced team specializes in providing the latest interventional pain management techniques to help patients achieve long-term pain relief and improve their quality of life. Contact us today to learn more about how Splanchnic Nerve RFA can help you regain control of your life.
Frequently Asked Questions
The pain relief typically lasts for months to years; the duration may vary depending on the individual and the underlying condition.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so patients typically feel minimal discomfort. You may feel some pressure during the needle insertion, but the procedure is generally well-tolerated.
Most patients begin to feel pain relief within a few days to a couple of weeks, although it can take up to two to four weeks for the full effect to be felt.
Yes, Splanchnic Nerve RFA can be repeated if necessary. Many patients undergo the procedure multiple times to maintain pain relief over the years.
The side effects are not common after Splanchnic Nerve RFA except soreness. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects after the procedure, such as prolonged pain or signs of infection, contact your doctor immediately for advice and treatment.
The side effects are not common after Splanchnic Nerve RFA except soreness. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects after the procedure, such as prolonged pain or signs of infection, contact your doctor immediately for advice and treatment.