@papaspeachy @mrector This is Mayo Clinic's explanation of RFA. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/radiofrequency-neurotomy/about/pac-20394931

I have had epidural steroid injections in my cervical and lumbar spine. Nearly 8 years ago I had facet RFA (radio frequency ablation) in my lumbar spine. I was very fortunate that the procedure worked for a long time. I am going in for a Laser Ablation test on a different area of my lumbar spine. As a diagnostic tool, the doctor will inject lidocaine in the facet joint. I will then have about two hours to determine how much relief (if any) I get. Let's say I determine with the lidocaine, my pain decreased by 80% in my lower back and legs. That would be enough for me to go ahead with the ablation.
To answer your question about what to expect etc, it is less painful than the spinal injections you have had in the past. The ablation is done under a live xray called a fluroscope (my procedures have all been done at a surgical center) You go in (nothing to eat or drink after midnight) Nurses will put an IV in your arm to administer fluids and medications as needed. The doctor will determine exactly what nerves will be targeted in the ablation but in the trial he will inject the lidocaine in the facet joint of the spine. It is not a painful procedure. After the procedure, you may have soreness where the needles were placed. Ice and Tylenol have been enough for any discomfort.

@papaspeachy Did your husband go through the trial procedure prior to the ablation? There is no permanent procedure to kill the nerves as they do grow back. Would you share with us more about your husband's condition? I empathize with you as my husband had two cervical spine fusion surgeries. He is fused from C3-C5 then the 2nd surgery C5-C7. He has extensive nerve damage. This is a result of a workplace injury. He had spinal cord compression. When we met with the neuro surgeon the doctor said "go home, don't drive, don't take a bath, live in a bubble if you can!" The doctor's fear was my husband could be bumped into or fall and become paralyzed.

I am more than happy to answer any other questions you both may have. @mrector Will you let me know what you decide to do?