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Definition of Rhizotomy & Recovery Time

Rhizotomy is a surgical procedure performed in response certain neurological disorders and in some cases to reduce severe back pain. Facet rhizotomy and selective dorsal rhizotomy are procedures intended to treat different conditions. Depending on the type of procedure, the amount of aftercare and the recovery time required may vary.

  1. Dorsal Rhizotomy-Definition

    • Disorders like cerebral palsy can cause a condition called spasticity, in which muscles in some portions of the body remain permanently contracted. Selective dorsal rhizotomy is one approach to treating this condition. During selective dorsal rhizotomy, the surgeon identifies and cuts some of the nerve fibers from the spine that communicate with the affected muscle. The procedure permanently reduces spasticity, although it doesn't correct other problems associated with neurological disorders like cerebral palsy.

    Facet Rhizotomy-Definition

    • Facet joints are those that link adjacent vertebrae in the spine. Problems with facet joints may cause pain in various regions of the body, depending on which nerves are affected. In cases in which pain becomes severe or cannot be successfully treated by other methods, physicians may resort to radiofrequency rhizotomy. During this procedure, an electrode-tipped needle is used to apply intense heat to the small nerves at the facet joint, deadening the nerve so that it cannot carry signals.

    Dorsal Rhizotomy-Recovery Time

    • Immediately after a selective dorsal rhizotomy, patients typically remain in the hospital for one to three days. Usually the patient can resume eating solid food a day or two after the surgery and will remain on narcotic pain relievers for two to three days. Patients generally need extensive physical therapy, which may last for weeks or months after the procedure, although immediate aftereffects such as pain, tingling, pricking and burning in the nerves generally last for no more than two weeks.

    Recovery Time for Facet Rhizotomy

    • Radiofrequency rhizotomy is less invasive and generally has a short recovery time. It is typically an outpatient procedure that may even be performed with local anesthesic. Patients often are discharged within an hour.

    Complications and Recovery Time

    • As with any surgical procedure, complications may significantly delay recovery. Possible complications of dorsal rhizotomy may include infection or complications from anesthesia, although both are fairly uncommon. Radiofrequency rhizotomy to treat facet joint problems may cause complications such as infection or low blood pressure, although complications from this procedure are rare.

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