Facet Neurotomy

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What is it?
Facet neurotomy is a procedure which results in interruption of the nerve supply to a facet joint. This interruption known as denervation, is accomplished by a radio-frequency probe that heats the 2 small nerve branches to each facet joint. These nerves are called the medial branches.

How is it done?
With the patient in a prone position and under local anesthesia and fluoroscopic guidance, a radio-frequency needle is advanced to the base of the transverse processes. The needle is placed along the course of the medial branch. The needle is heated to 80