Radiofrequency of the intercostal nerves is an effective and minimally invasive treatment designed to relieve pain in the thoracic area, which may originate due to different conditions, such as intercostal neuralgia, previous thoracic surgeries or rib fractures.
This procedure is part of the options offered at Clínica San Román’s Pain Management Unit, using advanced technology to improve the quality of life of patients suffering from chronic pain in the chest area.
What Are the Intercostal Nerves?
The intercostal nerves are a bundle of nerves that lie between the ribs and play an important role in transmitting sensory and motor signals.
These nerves originate in the thoracic spinal cord and travel through the rib cage, providing sensation and control to the intercostal muscles, which are essential for breathing and other thoracic movements.
Intercostal pain may arise due to compression, injury or inflammation of these nerves, and is usually characterized by a stabbing or burning pain in the chest, which may worsen with movement or deep breathing.
Indications for Radiofrequency of the Intercostal Nerves
Radiofrequency of the intercostal nerves is indicated for patients suffering from chronic pain in the thoracic area that has not responded adequately to conventional treatments.
Some of the conditions that may benefit from this treatment include:
- Intercostal neuralgia: Pain in the thoracic area caused by irritation or damage to the intercostal nerves.
- Postoperative chest pain: Persistent pain after chest surgery, such as thoracotomy.
- Rib fractures: Severe pain due to rib fractures.
- Neuropathic pain: Chronic pain associated with damage to the intercostal nerves due to different causes.
How does Radiofrequency of the Intercostal Nerves work?
The radiofrequency procedure uses a high-frequency electrical current to temporarily interrupt pain signals traveling through the intercostal nerves.
This is accomplished by inserting a needle near the affected nerve, guided by ultrasound or fluoroscopic imaging to ensure accuracy.
Once in place, a controlled radiofrequency current is applied that generates heat and temporarily deactivates the nerve fibers responsible for the pain.
This procedure is minimally invasive and is performed under local anesthesia, which reduces discomfort during treatment.
Benefits of Radiofrequency of the Intercostal Nerves
Radiofrequency treatment of the intercostal nerves offers several important benefits:
- Prolonged pain relief: Patients may experience significant pain reduction lasting several months.
- Minimally invasive procedure: Unlike surgery, radiofrequency is a less invasive treatment, with lower risk and faster recovery times.
- Reduced need for medication: Prolonged pain relief can decrease or eliminate the need for painkillers, reducing the risk of long-term side effects.
- Improved quality of life: By reducing chronic pain, patients can resume their daily activities and improve their overall well-being.
Procedure and Recovery
The intercostal nerve RF procedure is performed in an outpatient setting and usually lasts between 30 and 60 minutes.
After the injection of local anesthesia, the specialist will use image guidance to precisely locate the affected nerve.
A fine needle is then inserted near the nerve and radiofrequency current is applied, generating heat that deactivates the nerve fibers responsible for the pain.
After the procedure, patients usually experience gradual pain relief in the days that follow.
Recovery is rapid, and most patients can resume normal activities the following day, although it is recommended that strenuous physical exertion be avoided for the first 48 hours.
When to Consider Intercostal Nerve Radiofrequency?
Radiofrequency is an ideal option for patients who have tried other treatments without success, such as oral medications or physical therapy.
It is also an effective alternative for those who wish to avoid more invasive options, such as surgery.
At Clínica San Román, pain specialists customize each radiofrequency treatment according to the needs of each patient, carefully evaluating each case to maximize the results of the procedure.
Conclusion
Radiofrequency of the intercostal nerves is an effective and minimally invasive treatment for chronic pain in the thoracic area.
At Clinica San Roman’s Pain Management Unit, this procedure is offered as an advanced solution for those suffering from severe intercostal pain.
If you suffer from chronic chest pain and other treatments have not been effective, we invite you to consult with our specialists to evaluate if radiofrequency of the intercostal nerves is right for you.
