What Is Rhizotomy of the Neck?

Rhizotomy of the neck is the deadening of the nerves of the facet joints of the neck. The deadening is usually accomplished using radiofrequency energy. Deadening these nerves can provide pain relief by disconnecting the nerves carrying pain signals to the brain.

Indications for Rhizotomy of the Neck

• Rhizotomy is usually considered for back pain. The facet joints are located along the spine. If the joints degenerate, they can affect the nerve and cause pain that manifests itself in other parts of the body.

What is Rhizotomy

• The intent of rhizotomy is to destroy the capacity of the nerve to carry pain signals to the brain. This is currently accomplished by using pulsed radiofrequency energy to stun the nerve.

How are Rhizotomies Performed

• A rhizotomy is usually performed using a needle-like electrode under local anesthetic. The placement of the electrode is guided by X-ray images. The procedure usually is performed in less than one hour.

Risks of Rhizotomy

• Risks associated with rhizotomy are considered to be low and usually consist of pain at the operation site, according to information from the Kovacs Foundation.

Rhizotomy for Cerebral Palsy

• Rhizotomy can relieve spasticity in individuals with cerebral palsy. According to the United Cerebral Palsy Research and Educational Foundation, rhizotomy is used only after other procedures have failed.