Medial branch blocks and radiofrequency ablation are two types of procedures used to diagnose and manage pain in the spine, particularly in the back and neck. Medial branch blocks involve the injection of an anesthetic near the medial branches of spinal nerves, which supply sensation to the facet joints. The goal is to temporarily block the pain signals to determine if it is originating from the facet joints. If the test is positive, then radiofrequency ablation may be indicated. This procedure involves the use of radiofrequency energy to destroy the medial branches, thus interrupting the pain signals and providing pain relief for longer periods
This is a presentation I presented at “Ultrasound and C-Arm Guided Radiofrequency Ablation Pain Management Course” at University Kebangsaan Malaysia in 2022. I summarized and made a step-by-step guide for C-arm medial branch block and RFA.
