@gailmollin
Hi Gail,
I've had radio ablation numerous times in different areas.
Basically, the doctor tries to find the nerves that are giving you the problems. Once it is found, the nerves are corterized. The nerves will regenerate so jow long this will last depends.
I've had it done by multiple doctors and each one has done it differently. My last and current pain Management docs did a test about 1 week prior to the actual procedure. After numbing the problem area, the doctor used a florascope xray to see where he puts the needs. One he finds the spot, a picture is taken. You are injected with a miild non steroid medicine. If you get an hour or more of temporary relief, it means he found the nerves. You come back and the doc uses the previous pictures to do the procedure.
Things to know..
1. Even if the test works, it does not mean the procedure will, or if ut does, no guarantee of how long.
2. The test part can be uncomfortable, but as soon as the needles are out, the pain is gone. I have no problem tolersting it.
3. The actual procedure is more painful. The last time I had it done, the doc gave me a little something in an IV to help.
4. The test and procedure is done in a sterile, operating room-like area. The body part is cleaned with a surgical soap, areas around the injection sites (yes there are more than one) are drapped, the doc will were a mask.

Leave if the following happens:
1. Doc does NOT do a test first
2. The test and procedure are NOT done in a sterile environment.
3. A florascope is NOT used
4. The doc DC oes not take precautions

As a matter of fact, I went for the test last week. I got good relief.

Good luck and I hope this helps!

Ronnie (GRANDMAr)