Hello,

I would like to know how your RFNA went?? I have had MP for 2 years. Gabapentin works, but sick of taking drugs, let alone the 40 some pounds it put on me. I have had three nerve blocks that have not worked at all. I am scheduled 8/4/10 (weds !!!) for the RF Nerve Ablation. I am kind of freaked out. They sedate you, then burn the nerve. The nerve blocks about killed me because I cant stand needles, let alone the fact you cant have pain med because you NEED to feel it! So, I am wondering how yours turned out. I really hope I can reach you before I go. Let me know everything, good or bad!

Best Wishes
Mary

Greetings, Mary!
I had the RFNA done on 8/13/2010 at the Mayo Hospital in Scottsdale. I was given a novacaine injection (which was just a prick of pain) at the site where the needle was to be inserted for the RFNA. The procedure was somewhat uncomfortable as the doctors moved my leg muscles so they could see the nerve on the screen, but it was not painful. Once they were quite sure it was the correct nerve the RFNA was activated. I felt only a bit of a wavey vibration. The doctors said it would be about 6 weeks to know for sure if it had been effective. It has now been 4 weeks, and during that time I have had periods where the pain has reduced dramaticly, but come back. Now at 4 weeks the pain is less frequent and the area is becoming more numb (which is the goal). If all goes well, somewhere around 6 week it should stay numb, with little or no pain. I'll try to post again then. But I am very hopeful - have even been able to climb stairs with no pain!
Hang in there!
Susan

Hi Susan,

I wanted to see how you are doing with regards to getting the Radio Frequency Ablation for your meralgia Paresthetica? Did the pain go away completely? Are you completely numb now, and if you are how is sleeping and doing activity? I'm considering doing it! I ended up getting in from having a hip arthroscopy back in 2011. I have it so bad and I'm not able to take any meds either. Any feedback would be so greatly appreciated. Also did a fellow anesthesiologist do it or a regular experienced one do the procedure.
Best,
Lynn