Rhizotomy: A Surgical Procedure for Chronic Pain, Spasticity, and Peripheral Nerve Injuries

Rhizotomy is a surgical procedure that involves cutting or severing the nerve roots that emerge from the spinal cord and transmit signals to other parts of the body. The goal of the procedure is to relieve pain, weakness, or other symptoms caused by damage or compression of the nerves.
There are different types of rhizotomy procedures, including:
1. Rhizotomy for chronic pain: This type of procedure is used to treat chronic pain that has not responded to other forms of treatment. The surgery involves cutting or ablating (destroying) specific nerve roots that are responsible for transmitting pain signals to the brain.
2. Rhizotomy for spasticity: This type of procedure is used to treat muscle spasticity, which is a condition where the muscles become stiff and rigid. The surgery involves cutting or ablating specific nerve roots that are responsible for controlling muscle movement.
3. Rhizotomy for peripheral nerve injuries: This type of procedure is used to treat peripheral nerve injuries, such as those caused by trauma or compression. The surgery involves cutting or repairing the damaged nerve roots to restore function and relieve pain.
4. Rhizotomy for spinal cord injuries: This type of procedure is used to treat spinal cord injuries that have resulted in loss of sensation or function below the level of the injury. The surgery involves cutting or ablating specific nerve roots that are responsible for transmitting signals to the affected area.
The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and may involve a variety of techniques, including microsurgery, endoscopy, or minimally invasive surgery. The specific technique used will depend on the location and severity of the nerve damage.
After the procedure, patients may need to undergo rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility in the affected area. The results of rhizotomy can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition being treated, but it can provide significant relief for many patients.