Phoenix Spine & Joint | What is a DVR spine procedure?

[anthonycarbone]

I just completed my second RFA on my Thoracic Spine (T3 - T5, left side only...Four nerves were burned because I believe two for each facet joint). The first one last about 1.5 years before returning even though I did not identify the symptoms to the right area of the body so delayed it to the two year mark. I expect the second one (just completed) to last about 1.5 years again. My question is if I have had two successful RFA's and numerous Medial Nerve Blocks is if the MRI and further Medial Nerve Blocks will be required if I choose a DVR in the future? The second one the insurance company approved the RFA only with no Medial Nerve Blocks, as the historical medical notes sufficed. One other factor will be in a year a half I will be under Medicare ( no private insurance) and Tricare for Life. Is this procedure covered under Medicare? I have attempted to look up how long DVR has been around and it seems it is a rather new accepted procedure.

[martinquick-idce]

Are there downsides to not having that nerve forever? Will a patient eventually loose control of the muscles around or have any sort of long term risk? I worry that with something as sensitive as a nerve, it could cause problems. I imagine there are some downsides. Can you not feel anything in that area, like a hand touching your back? I imagine the body has nerves for a reason, but I ask out of true curiosity as this may help me.

[ctmoboctmobo]

Thank you so much. I recently had the RFA procedure and didn't work. Am ready to try DVR now, after watching your great video.

[KarinaHernandez-irqt]

Is DVR an option for patients who have undergone several spine surgeries and are diagnosed with chronic FBSS? I work in surgery myself. Chronic pain from multiple failed spine surgeries. Fully fused L5-S1. Radiculopathy across the low back down into buttucks. Nerve damage from complications using the Mazor. I have been told I have no options. Desperate for a pain free life at 27 years old. Would appreciate any information, Thankyou.

[poersnog]

I have been diagnosed by two Ortho Spine Surgeons with Grade 1 Spondylolisthesis and Severe Stenosis at L/4/5. I'm currently seeing a Physiatrist in order to avoid a Spinal Fusion. I am being rushed thru Medial Branch Blocks with RFA being performed without consultation from my 2nd MBB. 1st MBB wasn't conclusive. The RFA is being performed less than a week after my 2nd MBB. I am trying to make an informed decision on what the next step should be. The DVR sounds like the best option for now. Does an Ortho Spine Surgeon perform DVR's? My gut tells me to cancel the RFA because of the lack of communication due to rushed procedures without communication from the Doctor. If I sound a bit desperate, I am...Thank You!

[catgranny]

Would this stop the pain from spondylolythesis at L4/L5 & arthritis along that area?

[tcmomcoffey]

So if rfa ablation works is this the next best step because I'm not ok pain n physically but getting my ablation in 2days will or can I get this is the rfa helps

[chrisgriffiths]

I am interested in DVR . I am having trouble accessing it in the UK they seem to only do RA do you know anyone in the UK doing this ? I have facet joint arthritis L5 and a medial branch block worked for 12 hrs but not the steroid they put in this branch block was supposed to get more pain relief 3 wks later didnt happen ! can you be put to sleep ? would rather be knocked out ! thanks for any advice. Also can this last 10 yrs ?

[XX-]

This dvr obviously isn’t for the cervical spine, it’s lumbar only.