Introduction to Dr. Dariusz Nasiek, MD
Dr. Dariusz Nasiek, MD, is a fellowship-trained and board-certified anesthesiologist and pain management physician. He is dedicated to collaborating closely with his patients to identify their pain source and find the least invasive treatment option that suits their needs.
Understanding the Importance of Our Spine
The spine is a crucial musculoskeletal organ that supports every movement we make. When its structures malfunction or cause discomfort, the effects can be widespread. Chronic lower back pain, which affects 60 to 80% of the population at some point, is a significant issue that needs addressing. A practical solution to this problem is endoscopic rhizotomy.
What Is an Endoscopic Rhizotomy?
An endoscopic rhizotomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that targets the medial branch nerve extending from the spinal cord’s nerve roots. This procedure provides relief by severing or removing these nerves, which are responsible for transmitting pain signals from the facet joints to the brain.
Conditions Treated by Rhizotomy
Endoscopic rhizotomy can effectively treat various chronic back pain conditions such as arthritis of the spine, chronic lower back pain, facet joint syndrome, failed back surgery syndrome, sacroiliac joint disorder, and spinal stenosis.
Differences Between Endoscopic Rhizotomy and Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
The primary differences between endoscopic rhizotomy and RFA include the procedures’ invasiveness, the pain relief duration, and the techniques used to achieve nerve ablation. RFA is less invasive but offers shorter-term relief, while endoscopic rhizotomy provides longer-term relief by surgically severing the nerves.
The Procedure: Before, During, and After
Before the Procedure
Preparation for an endoscopic rhizotomy includes intravenous sedation and specific pre-surgical measures, such as fasting. Patients are made comfortable in a private room before being sedated and taken to the operating room.
During the Procedure
The procedure involves the use of fluoroscopy for guidance, local anesthetic injection, and the insertion of a small metal dilator and cannula through which the endoscope and surgical instruments are introduced to sever the problematic nerve root.
After the Procedure
Endoscopic rhizotomy is an outpatient procedure with a relatively short recovery time. Patients can usually return to work the following day but should avoid strenuous activities and follow their surgeon’s post-operative instructions for care.
Who Needs an Endoscopic Rhizotomy?
Ideal candidates for endoscopic rhizotomy include individuals with chronic lower back pain related to the facet joints, those who have not found relief through other treatments, and those looking for a less invasive alternative to spinal fusion surgery.
Advantages of Endoscopic Rhizotomy
Endoscopic rhizotomy offers several benefits over other procedures, including its minimally invasive nature, short recovery time, high success rate, and preservation of spinal mobility. It provides long-lasting pain relief while maintaining the spine’s flexibility.
Conclusion: Should You Get an Endoscopic Rhizotomy?
If you are experiencing chronic lower back pain and have not found relief through other treatments, an endoscopic rhizotomy may be a suitable option. Discussing with a qualified physician like Dr. Dariusz Nasiek, MD, can help determine if it is the proper procedure for you.
Schedule a Consultation
Dr. Dariusz Nasiek, MD, at Allied Neurology and Interventional Pain Practice, has provided successful, minimally invasive spine procedures to patients in NY, NJ, and surrounding areas since 2006. If you are interested in learning more about endoscopic rhizotomy, scheduling a consultation is the first step toward finding relief for your back pain.
