Private Radiofrequency Ablation in Sutton Coldfield
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for long-lasting relief of facet joint back and neck pain. 12–24 months of relief. From £2,200. Same-week pain consultant. Published price.
What is radiofrequency ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA), also called radiofrequency denervation, is a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat generated by radiofrequency energy to interrupt the nerve signals transmitting pain from arthritic facet joints to the brain. It provides significantly longer-lasting pain relief than cortisone injections — typically 12–24 months or more.
RFA is specifically indicated for patients who have confirmed facet joint pain (demonstrated by a positive response to diagnostic facet joint blocks or medial branch blocks) and who desire longer-lasting relief than injections provide. The procedure is performed under fluoroscopic guidance and takes approximately 45–60 minutes. The nerves do regenerate over time, and the procedure can be repeated.
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Who is radiofrequency ablation for?
You may be a suitable candidate for radiofrequency ablation if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Chronic lumbar or cervical facet joint pain confirmed by positive diagnostic injection
- Repeated requirement for facet joint steroid injections with diminishing duration
- Patients seeking longer-lasting pain relief than steroid injections provide
- Spinal pain significantly affecting daily activities, work, and sleep
- Failure of conservative management (physiotherapy, oral analgesia, injections)
Important: This page is for general information only. Suitability for any surgical procedure is determined at a consultant assessment appointment. Book a consultation to discuss your specific circumstances.
No GP referral needed · CQC-regulated · Open 7 days
What happens at The Vesey
From your first consultation to discharge — here is what to expect at every stage.
Consultant assessment
Review of previous diagnostic injection response and confirmation that RFA is appropriate. Discussion of expected duration of relief and procedural risks.
Preparation
Aspirin and anticoagulants adjusted. Nil by mouth if sedation is planned.
Radiofrequency ablation
Under fluoroscopic guidance, RFA needles are placed adjacent to the medial branch nerves supplying the facet joints. Stimulation confirms correct position. Radiofrequency energy is delivered to heat and disable the nerve. Multiple levels are typically treated.
Recovery
Monitored for 1–2 hours. A responsible adult should drive home. Rest for 48–72 hours.
Recovery — what to expect
Temporary increased pain for 1–2 weeks as post-procedural inflammation settles. Pain relief begins at 2–6 weeks and typically peaks at 3 months. Duration of benefit: 12–24 months.
Your consultant will provide you with a personalised recovery plan at your assessment appointment, based on your individual procedure, health status, and activity requirements.
Why patients are choosing private Radiofrequency Ablation
NHS waiting lists for radiofrequency ablation in the West Midlands currently exceed 12–24 months. At The Vesey, you can be seen by a consultant this week.
| Factor | NHS | The Vesey |
|---|---|---|
| Wait for consultant | 18+ weeks | 7–14 days |
| Wait for procedure | 12–24 months | Weeks, not months |
| Price | Free (if available) | Transparent, published upfront |
| GP referral required | Yes | No — book direct |
| Consultation length | 10–15 min | 45–60 min |
| Weekend appointments | Rarely available | Open 7 days incl. Sundays |
Radiofrequency Ablation — frequently asked questions
Our Pain Management consultants
Meet the consultant team who will lead your care. All hold full GMC Specialist Register registration and substantive NHS consultant appointments.
GMC Specialist Register · NHS Consultant
Subspecialty: Radiofrequency Ablation
Book a pain management consultation at The Vesey. Same-week appointments available. No GP referral required.
Book — from £2604.87/5 from 350+ verified patients — independently reviewed on Doctify
Book your radiofrequency ablation consultation today
Same-week appointments with a consultant pain management specialist. Published price — no hidden fees. CQC-regulated. Open 7 days including Sundays.
This page provides general information only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personal medical advice.