Suprascapular RFA for the Shoulder

Suprascapular RFA

What is suprascapular RFA?

Suprascapular radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses radio waves to create heat lesions around the suprascapular nerve. The suprascapular nerve is responsible for carrying pain signals from the shoulder to the brain. By blocking these signals, suprascapular RFA can provide long-lasting pain relief for patients with chronic shoulder pain.

Who can benefit from suprascapular RFA?

Suprascapular RFA can be used to treat pain from the shoulder from a variety of causes, such as:

  • Rotator cuff tears
  • Rotator cuff tendinosis
  • Labral tears
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Post-stroke shoulder pain
  • Nerve entrapment

Suprascapular RFA can be an effective treatment option for patients who have failed conservative treatments, such as medications, injections, or physical therapy, or who are not suitable or willing for surgery.

How is suprascapular RFA performed?

Suprascapular RFA is usually performed under local anesthesia in an outpatient setting. The procedure involves the following steps:

  • The physician identifies the target nerve using real-time X-ray technology or ultrasound guidance.
  • The physician inserts a thin needle near the nerve and delivers a small amount of electric current to confirm the correct placement.
  • The physician applies radiofrequency waves through the needle to create heat lesions around the nerve, disrupting its ability to transmit pain signals.
  • The physician removes the needle and applies a bandage to the injection site.

The procedure typically takes 15 to 30 minutes to complete.

What are the risks and benefits of suprascapular RFA?

Suprascapular RFA is generally safe and well-tolerated, with minimal risks and complications. Some possible side effects include:

  • Temporary numbness, tingling, or soreness at the injection site
  • Mild bruising or bleeding
  • Infection
  • Nerve damage
  • Allergic reaction to anesthesia or contrast dye

The benefits of suprascapular RFA include:

  • Significant and lasting pain relief for up to 12 months or longer
  • Improved function and quality of life
  • Reduced need for pain medications
  • Avoidance or postponement of surgery
  • Low recovery time and minimal restrictions

How to prepare for suprascapular RFA?

Before undergoing suprascapular RFA, patients should:

  • Inform their physician about their medical history, allergies, and medications
  • Stop taking blood thinners or anti-inflammatory drugs as advised by their physician
  • Arrange for someone to drive them home after the procedure

On the day of the procedure, patients should:

  • Wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothing
  • Avoid eating or drinking anything for at least four hours before the procedure
  • Follow any other instructions given by their physician

How to recover from suprascapular RFA?

After the procedure, patients should:

  • Rest for the remainder of the day and avoid strenuous activities
  • Apply ice packs to the injection site as needed for pain or swelling
  • Take pain medications as prescribed by their physician
  • Keep the injection site clean and dry
  • Follow up with their physician as scheduled

Patients may experience some pain relief immediately after the procedure, but it may take several weeks for the full effect to occur. Patients should gradually resume their normal activities and physical therapy as tolerated. Patients should also monitor their pain level and report any changes or concerns to their physician.

Where can I learn more about suprascapular RFA?

If you are interested in learning more about suprascapular RFA for your shoulder pain, you can: