Posted 8/9/2012 10:57 PM (GMT 0)
I had it done recently, and I can tell you that it was pretty uncomfortable for about a week for me, much more sore than with steroid injections. I'd had numerous steroid injections in the facets of L3, L4, L5 and the right SI joint, which usually left me sore and uncomfortable for ~ 3 days. Unfortunately the nerve ablation didn't help me, but we're trying it again in 2 weeks at another couple of levels.
As far as what to expect, in my case they put the IV in and got me ready, when it was my turn I walked into the procedure room and hopped on the table, they monitored me and had me start counting backwards as they added the knockout drugs to my IV. I woke up in recovery about 40 mins later and my husband was able to take me home. I needed to use breakthrough pain meds (on top of my fentanyl patches) and a heating pad for the first 3 days during the worst soreness. about 1.5 - 2 weeks later I'd occasionally feel some very quick, sharp nerve twinges in that area, but no pain relief.
I hope it works better for you!