Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) for Abdominal & Pelvic Pain

What is it?
A minimally invasive option for long-lasting abdominal & pelvic pain relief.


What causes abdominal and pelvic pain?

Chronic abdominal or pelvic pain can come from irritation of deep nerve networks that carry pain signals from internal organs to the brain. Common sources include:
• Chronic pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer
• Post-surgical pain
• Endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory conditions
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Cancer-related abdominal or pelvic pain

What is Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)?
Radiofrequency ablation is a targeted pain treatment that uses controlled heat to interrupt pain signals from specific nerves.
Using imaging guidance (X-ray, CT, or ultrasound), your doctor places a thin needle near the affected nerve or nerve plexus and applies heat to reduce its ability to send pain signals.



Who may benefit from RFA?
You may be a good candidate if:
• You have chronic abdominal or pelvic pain lasting more than 3–6 months
• Other treatments (medications, physical therapy, injections) haven’t provided enough relief
• You’ve had temporary relief from a diagnostic nerve block
• Your pain is linked to specific nerve pathways


What happens during the procedure?
• Performed as an outpatient procedure
• You lie comfortably while the skin is numb
• Light sedation may be used
• A thin needle is guided to the target nerve using imaging
• Heat is applied for about 60–90 seconds

Total time: about 30–60 minutes
Most patients tolerate the procedure very well.


What can I expect afterward?
• Mild soreness at the treatment site for a few days
• Pain relief may begin within 1–3 weeks
• Many patients report significant and lasting improvement
Relief can last 6 to 12 months or longer, depending on the condition. The procedure can be repeated if needed.


Benefits of RFA
• Long-lasting pain relief
• Minimally invasive (no surgery)
• Can reduce the need for pain medications, including opioids
• Improves daily function and quality of life


Are there any risks?
RFA is generally safe, but possible side effects include:
• Temporary soreness or bruising
• Numbness or tingling
• Rarely: infection, bleeding, or nerve irritation
For abdominal procedures, your doctor will take special care to protect nearby organs and structures.


When might RFA not help?
RFA may be less effective if:
• Pain is not nerve-related
• The exact pain source is unclear
• There are widespread pain conditions without a specific target
A thorough evaluation helps determine if RFA is the right choice.


Take the next step
If you’re living with chronic abdominal or pelvic pain and haven’t found lasting relief, radiofrequency ablation may be an effective option.Talk to your doctor to see if this treatment is right for you.