PRF (Pulsed Radio Frequency) treatment

Pulsed Radio Frequency (PRF) is a minimally invasive procedure used in pain management to treat chronic pain conditions. It is a modification of conventional radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and provides a non-destructive form of electrical stimulation to target specific nerves involved in pain transmission.

PRF Treatment Procedure:

1. Patient Preparation: The patient arrives at Eisenhower Clinic and is prepared for the procedure. The pain specialist reviews the patient’s medical history, performs a physical examination, and discusses the procedure, benefits, and potential risks. Informed consent is obtained from the patient.
2. Positioning and Sterilization: The patient is positioned comfortably, often lying down or sitting, depending on the area being treated. The area where the PRF will be applied is cleaned and sterilized to reduce the risk of infection.
3. Local Anesthesia: The pain specialist administers a local anesthetic to numb the skin and underlying tissues near the treatment site. This helps ensure patient comfort during the procedure.
4. Electrode Placement: Using real-time X-ray guidance or ultrasound imaging, the pain specialist identifies the targeted nerve(s) associated with the patient’s pain. They insert a thin needle or electrode near the nerve or nerves to be treated.
5. Pulsed Radio Frequency Stimulation: Once the needle or electrode is correctly positioned, the pain specialist initiates the PRF stimulation. Unlike continuous radiofrequency ablation, PRF delivers pulsed electrical currents to the nerve tissue. The electrical pulses are delivered in short bursts or intervals, allowing for tissue cooling in between each pulse. The precise settings, duration, and frequency of the PRF stimulation vary depending on the specific pain condition and individual patient factors.
6. Monitoring and Evaluation: During the PRF treatment, the pain specialist monitors the patient’s response and adjusts the parameters if necessary. The patient may be asked to provide feedback regarding the coverage and intensity of the stimulation to ensure accurate targeting of the affected nerves.
7. Post-Treatment Care and Follow-up: After the PRF procedure, the pain specialist removes the needle or electrode. The patient is usually monitored for a short period to ensure there are no immediate complications or adverse reactions. The pain specialist provides instructions on post-treatment care, including any limitations on activities and potential side effects to watch for. A follow-up appointment is scheduled to evaluate the patient’s response to the treatment and determine the need for additional sessions.

PRF treatment aims to modulate nerve activity and disrupt pain signals, providing relief that can last for an extended period. The specific duration and degree of pain relief vary among individuals and depend on the underlying condition being treated.

It’s important to note that PRF treatment within Eisenhower Clinic is typically performed by pain specialists who have expertise in the field of pain management. They can assess the suitability of PRF for a particular patient’s condition and develop an individualized treatment plan tailored to their specific needs.