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What is radiofrequency ablation (RFA)? Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure performed under local anaesthetic, which uses the application of heat to minimise or completely stop pain transmission. The nerve causing the pain is burned, or ablated, using an electrical current to target a specific area. This ablation stops the transmission of nerve signals to the brain, thus providing relief. Why undergo radiofrequency...

What is radiofrequency denervation? Radiofrequency denervation is an alternative treatment to treat all pain related to the neck and lower back. The denervation is carried out with the use of radio waves that, by heat energy destroy the nerves that are around the spine that generate pain. It’s also known as radiofrequency ablation or facet rhizolysis. Why is radiofrequency denervation done? Radiofrequency is done to combat pain generated by natural...

What is radiofrequency treatment (RFA)? Radiofrequency (RFA)is a minimally invasive procedure which can be used to treat varicose veins. It is performed under local anaesthetic, and uses the application of heat to damage tissue, meaning scar tissue forms. This closes the varicose vein and cuts it off, meaning it is destroyed. This type of treatment can be used on large varicose veins.

What is radiofrequency turbinate reduction? Radiofrequency turbinate reduction surgery involves the application of high-frequency radio waves which cut through nasal tissue in a controlled way, reducing the turbinates to improve air flow. The waves are applied directly to the targeted tissue using cold electrodes. At the start of the procedure, a thin radiofrequency probe is inserted through the nostrils.

What is radiography? Radiography is an imaging technique used to provide images of the tissues, organs and bones inside the human body. There are two types of radiographers: diagnostic and therapeutic. A diagnostic radiographertakes images of the insides of patients’ bodies to diagnose injury, illness and disease. A therapeutic radiographer is an allied health professionalwho has undergone specific training to be able to deliver radiotherapy for patients...

What is radiosurgery? Radiosurgery is a form of high-precision radiotherapy in which fine beams of high-dose ionising radiation are used to destroy precisely selected areas of tissue, rather than removing them with a blade, as in traditional surgery. It uses much higher doses of radiation in the...

What is radiotherapy? Radiotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses high doses of radiation to eliminate cancer cells and reduce tumours. There are two main types of radiotherapy: External beam radiotherapy: a beam of radiation is aimed at the tumour from outside the body. Internal radiotherapy: in this type of treatment, the...

Radiotherapy side effects greatly vary depending on the overall administered dose and on the individual’s tolerance. The most common side effects include: Fatigue (asthenia) : it can occur during the treatment, although it can be associated with other disease-related factors or with other...

What is the Rafaelo® procedure? The Rafaelo® Procedure is a new procedure which offers a safe and effective treatment for haemorrhoids (piles). Why is it done? There are many ways to treat haemorrhoids. Many of these treatments, such as...

What is a ranula? A ranula is a type of mucocele found in the mouth. They present as clear or blue-tinged cysts and occur when a salivary gland becomes blocked. They are found on the floor of the mouth underneath the tongue. Often they are small and do not require treatment, however, if they become large they can create problems with speech, swallowing and chewing and require treatment.