radio frequency ablation
 

Two wks ago I had an IME for wc and the rsd in my hand/arm/shoulder. That dr asked if RFA was ever discussed and I said no. I had 6 stellate ganglion blocks and got about 10 days of relief. Today I saw my pm Dr today and we discussed the RFA. He said it's what the IME feels would be the next logical step. My dr says that he hasn't seen a very high success rate. He also said that I could get the same side effects that I had from the blocks (Horners syndrome) but that it could last for months. Basically he gave 3 scenarios;1. It doesn't work and I end up with the continued pain AND Horners syndrome for however long. 2. I get relief but end up with Horners for however long or
3. Nothing happens, no change or relief. There is also a chance that I could get the relief with no Horners but he feels that given the dramatic side effects that I had with the blocks that I would most likely get them with the RFA also. I don't know if I could handle horners for a long time, not sure how my kids would handle it.

I don't know what to do. I'm managing on Cymbalta and Lyrica right now. I guess I am getting used to the pain but I am always so tired.I can't even cry anymore (geez, I used to cry every 5 miniutes), I am just so mad now. I just don't know what to do now. Wish this were just a nightmare and my life were back to normal.

Hello,

I had RFA twice and it didn't work either time. When I had it done my RSD was only in my arm and shoulder. It's now full body with some organ involment. I think mine spread as a result of the RFA.

I wish you the best of luck in your decision.
Take care,
Sherrie

If you strongly feel it is an invasive procedure I'd avoid it. It sounds like the risks outweigh the positives. It also sounds as though your pain is controlled at a minimum? I do not have RSD but have watched my wife suffer for 4 years with very little pain control, or none at all.

Ive had 2 of them. The 1st gave me 9 months probably 5o% pain reduction. The 2nd didnt get much benefit. Had neck problems after the 2nd that have only gotten worse, and now the RSD has spread to my L neck & L jaw, with major jaw/neck issues. It sux!! Knowing what I know now, the nerve rhizotomy causes "trauma" to whatever nerve....so theres a good chance of spreading, and I doubt your Doc will tell u this.

I decided against the RFA. It seemed the risks outweighed the benefits. I also felt that if this was what my Dr thought should be next he would have recomended it but he never did (the IME Dr for wc did). He also said he didn't have good results so I took that as a hint of what he thought. It was not an easy decision though. I feel guilty now for declining a chance that it could help even though I know it could get worse. My husband doesn't want me to do it though. I just can't keep up trying to hide my pain when my husband and kids are around anymore. I have kept their lives as they were and it's taking it's toll. My daughter sees it (she's only 14). My husband works so hard though and I can't sit around and watch him do while I sit. Ugh! I hate this thing.