Variations in RF Devices

Jeffery Petersohn, DO, discusses variations in radiofrequency (RF) devices for nerve ablation. These devices are catheters or cannulas made of long pieces of steel that are heated and cooled by various methods. It is important to choose an RF device that can create lesions but also leave nearby tissues and structures undamaged. Patient characteristics may affect which RF device is chosen. Newer RF technologies are being made that are partially insulated to help preserve these structures while remaining effective.