Sacral Lateral Branch Radiofrequency (RF) Neurotomy


The sacroiliac joints (SIJ) are joints between the bones that make up the pelvis. They may be a cause of chronic low back or buttock pain. Occasionally, nerve blocks may be performed to the lateral branches to diagnose SIJ pain. Radiofrequency neurotomy of the lateral branches can be performed to provide longer lasting pain relief if a patient has responded appropriately to two separate lateral branch blocks. The procedure uses radiofrequency energy that results in heat generation causing a disruption of proteins in the nerves that supply the SIJ, and hopefully prolonged pain relief.


The injection requires use of x-ray and/or ultrasound (US) to precisely place the needle. Therefore, if you are pregnant, please inform your physician prior to the procedure. The amount of x-ray exposure is within recommended safe limits for adults, but can be hazardous to the developing fetus.



Notify your physician of any allergies you may have.

Before the procedure:

Take your medications as prescribed. You may be given a sedative medication prior to the procedure.

During the procedure:

You will be placed onto a special table for the procedure. After cleansing the skin, drapes will be applied to ensure sterility. The x-ray machine will be maneuvered to a satisfactory position. A needle will be placed precisely to the target nerve branch to apply numbing medication. After removing the initial needle, a special RF needle will be directed to the same location through the numb area. After the RF needles are placed, a small amount of electrical current is passed through the tip of the needle to assure a safe distance from other nerves. The RF energy generates heat at the tip of the needle electrode that will create a lesion of the targeted nerve. You may feel some initial discomfort when the heating begins, though it should quickly subside. After the first lesion is completed, the needle electrodes will be adjusted and additional lesions preformed. This allows for a larger lesion thereby treating more of the targeted nerve resulting in greater benefit than single lesions.

After the procedure:

Your skin will be cleansed and a bandage applied as necessary. You will be taken to an observation area and monitored for any adverse reactions, which are very rare. Keep in mind, the greatest benefit following radiofrequency neurotomy will often be experienced in 4-6 weeks.

Side effects or complications:

