Rhizotomy

Rhizotomy is a neurosurgical procedure that selectively destroys problematic nerve roots in the spinal cord. This procedure is used to relieve symptoms such as muscle spasms and pain caused by conditions such as spastic diplegia and other forms of cerebral palsy, back pain, neck pain, and certain types of chronic pain, including pain associated with cancer or phantom limb pain.

Procedure

The procedure involves the surgeon making an incision in the back and using an X-ray to guide a probe to the location of the nerve roots. The surgeon then uses an electrical current to destroy the nerve roots. The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia.

Types of Rhizotomy

There are several types of rhizotomy procedures, including:

• Dorsal Rhizotomy: This procedure involves severing the sensory nerve roots in the spinal cord. It is most commonly used to treat spastic diplegia and other forms of cerebral palsy.

• Facet Rhizotomy: This procedure involves severing the sensory nerve roots in the facet joints of the spine. It is most commonly used to treat chronic back and neck pain.

• Trigeminal Rhizotomy: This procedure involves severing the sensory nerve roots in the trigeminal nerve. It is most commonly used to treat trigeminal neuralgia.

Risks and Complications

Like all surgical procedures, rhizotomy carries some risks. These may include infection, bleeding, nerve damage, and allergic reaction to anesthesia. Some patients may also experience changes in sensation or motor function.

See Also

• Neurosurgery
• Spinal cord
• Chronic pain

References

Rhizotomy Resources
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