Rhizotomy: Symptoms, Classification, Diagnosis & Recovery

Rhizotomy is a minimally invasive procedure used to relieve chronic nerve-related pain by targeting and disrupting specific pain-carrying nerve fibres. It is often recommended for patients with conditions such as trigeminal neuralgia, facet joint pain, sciatica, or spasticity that do not respond well to medications or physical therapy.

The procedure works by interrupting the nerve's ability to send pain signals to the brain, providing lasting relief and reducing dependence on painkillers. Rhizotomy can be performed using various techniques, including radiofrequency ablation, where heat is used to destroy the nerve, or chemical methods involving targeted injections. In some cases, especially for severe muscle stiffness, open surgical rhizotomy may be used.

The procedure is typically done under local or general anaesthesia, depending on the technique and patient condition, and is often completed as a same-day surgery with minimal hospital stay. It aims to improve quality of life by reducing pain and restoring function, although the results may vary based on the underlying condition and the patient’s overall health.

Here are the signs and symptoms of an Rhizotomy,

• Soreness
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Numbness
• Tingling
• Weakness
• Relief
• Stiffness
• Headache
• Discomfort