Full Answer
Is COOLIEF approved by Medicare?
Is COOLIEF* covered by Medicare? COOLIEF* may be covered by Medicare and by certain private payers. However, your doctor will need to confirm with your insurance provider if they cover the COOLIEF* procedure.
Does cooled radiofrequency ablation relieve osteoarthritis pain?
Cooled radiofrequency ablation is a safe and effective treatment modality in the management of knee osteoarthritis pain.
Is the COOLIEF procedure painful?
Because the procedure is minimally invasive, most patients can expect to feel pain relief within 1-2 weeks, returning to an enhanced quality of life much sooner than with surgery. You may experience some discomfort for a short period, but this discomfort can be treated with common over-the-counter medication.
What happens if nerve ablation doesn't work?
In some cases, the nerves targeted in the procedure may grow back, so your pain will return. If the radiofrequency ablation relieved your pain temporarily, but then returned after a few months, it may be beneficial to repeat the procedure. Manage lingering pain.
Is radiofrequency ablation covered by insurance?
Radiofrequency ablation is usually covered by insurance, and for those experiencing chronic neck or back pain, RFA can be a welcomed relief. Remember: For the best outcome, follow your doctor's recommendations.
What are the side effects of COOLIEF?
Most studies found few or no side effects associated with the Coolief procedure. Even so, the manufacturer warns of potential risks that include infection, nerve damage, increased pain — even paralysis and death. In part, this may be based on reports of cooled radiofrequency ablation in other areas of the body.
Is COOLIEF FDA approved?
"The FDA has cleared for marketing the COOLIEF Cooled Radiofrequency (Cooled RF; Halyard Health) thermal treatment for the relief of chronic moderate to severe knee pain caused by osteoarthritis (OA).
How often can you have radiofrequency ablation?
The treated nerve can regrow. If this happens, it usually happens about six to 12 months after the procedure. Radiofrequency ablation can be repeated if needed. Talk with your healthcare provider about the success rate of your procedure and the length your pain relief may last.
Is walking good for arthritis in knees?
Walking is a fantastic option for many patients with knee arthritis because it is a low-impact activity that does not put undue stress on the joints. Furthermore, walking can increase the knee's range of motion and keep it from becoming overly stiff.
What can go wrong with radiofrequency ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation procedure-related risks. Superficial skin infections over the injection site. Damage to surrounding blood vessels and nerves during needle insertion resulting in excessive bleeding and/or irreversible neurologic damage causing long-term numbness and tingling.
What is the difference between a nerve block and a nerve ablation?
Your doctor may also use nerve blocks as a diagnostic tool to determine the source of your pain. Radiofrequency ablation of a nerve is sometimes used to provide longer lasting pain relief after a diagnostic nerve block. Procedure in which an injection of an anesthetic is delivered to a specific nerve to relieve pain.
How painful is nerve ablation?
It's not uncommon to feel some discomfort, superficial burning pain, or hypersensitivity in the area of the procedure. Some patients describe the feeling as similar to a sunburn. On average, this pain lasts no longer than 1 to 2 weeks after the procedure.