Tubular (endoscopic) rhizotomy

Who it may help

• Facet joint pain confirmed with medial branch blocks
• Good but short-lived relief from radiofrequency ablation

What happens

Under sedation, a small tube and camera are placed through a short incision, and the nerve branches are treated under direct view.

Recovery and outlook

Most people go home the same day and return to normal activity within a week or two.

Risks

Soreness, numbness of the skin, infection, and the chance that pain returns.

Other options to discuss

• Facet joint pain
• Radiofrequency ablation
• Medial branch blocks

Cost and coverage

When a procedure is medically necessary, it is usually billed to health insurance, Michigan auto no-fault or workers' comp. Many plans need prior authorization. Our team checks your benefits before your procedure is scheduled and tells you about any cost you're likely to owe. See who usually pays · Ask us to check your coverage

Where to get care at Specialty Medical Center

Consultations are at our spine and pain offices in Dearborn, Sterling Heights and Garden City. Part of Minimally Invasive Spine Center.

Eduardo José Otero Loperena, MDInterventional pain medicineMohamed Osman, MDPain managementAaron Greenberg, DOPhysical medicine and rehabilitation

Who performs procedures, and where:

• Dr. Eduardo José Otero: Universal Care Surgery Center
• Dr. Mohamed Osman and Dr. Aaron Greenberg: Universal Care Surgery Center and Advanced Surgery Center
• Dr. Roy Torcuator: Advanced Surgery Center and Garden City Hospital

Office injections are done in our offices. Your physician confirms who performs your procedure, and where, at your consultation.

This page gives general information. Your physician will explain whether a treatment fits you, its risks and the alternatives.