Denervation

Denervation is a medical procedure that involves the removal or destruction of a nerve or part of a nerve. It is often used to treat chronic pain in certain conditions, such as neuropathy, arthritis, and spasticity.

Overview

Denervation can be performed surgically, chemically, or through the use of thermal energy. The goal of the procedure is to interrupt the transmission of pain signals from the affected area to the brain. This can provide significant relief for patients who have not responded to other treatments.

Types of Denervation

There are several types of denervation procedures, including:

• Chemical Denervation: This involves injecting a chemical into the nerve to disrupt its function. The most common chemical used is alcohol or phenol.

• Thermal Denervation: This involves using heat to destroy the nerve. This can be done using radiofrequency energy, laser energy, or ultrasound energy.

• Surgical Denervation: This involves physically cutting or removing the nerve. This is often done in cases where the nerve is causing pain due to a tumor or other abnormal growth.

Risks and Complications

Like any medical procedure, denervation carries some risks. These can include infection, bleeding, and damage to surrounding tissues. There is also the risk that the procedure will not be successful in relieving pain. In some cases, denervation can actually cause increased pain due to the formation of a neuroma, which is a painful growth of nerve tissue.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery from denervation can vary depending on the type of procedure and the individual patient. Some patients may experience immediate relief from pain, while others may require several weeks or months of rehabilitation. Physical therapy is often recommended to help restore function and mobility.

See Also

• Neuropathy
• Arthritis
• Spasticity
• Neuroma

Denervation Resources
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