Dorsal Root Ganglion Pulsed Radiofrequency and Block

The dorsal root ganglion (DRG) is a cluster of nerve cell bodies just outside the spinal canal that plays a key role in relaying and amplifying pain signals from a specific area of the body, making it an important and precise target for certain chronic neuropathic pain conditions. This procedure aims to calm activity at this specific ganglion, reducing pain arising from the corresponding nerve distribution.

A diagnostic block using local anaesthetic is performed first under X-ray guidance to confirm the targeted dorsal root ganglion is contributing to your pain pattern. Where this produces clear, temporary relief, pulsed radiofrequency treatment is applied to the same ganglion, using short bursts of electrical energy designed to modulate pain signalling without the destructive heat of thermal ablation, which helps protect normal sensory and motor function nearby.

This precise, nerve-specific approach is often considered for conditions such as complex regional pain syndrome, persistent post-surgical neuropathic pain, or radicular pain confined to a specific nerve distribution. Dr Danesh will discuss whether your particular pain pattern makes you a suitable candidate and the expected course of treatment.