BackTable / VI / Podcast / Episode #394
Cryoneurolysis Pearls & Pitfalls
with Dr. Alexa Levey
In this episode of the BackTable Podcast, host Dr. Jacob Fleming and Dr. Alexa Levey have an in-depth discussion about the current uses and potential future applications of cryoneurolysis in interventional radiology. Dr. Levey is an interventional radiologist at the Memorial Hermann Health System in Houston, TX.
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BackTable, LLC (Producer). (2023, December 18). Ep. 394 – Cryoneurolysis Pearls & Pitfalls [Audio podcast]. Retrieved from https://www.backtable.com
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Podcast Contributors
Dr. Alexa Levey
Dr. Alexa Levey is an interventional radiologist, interventional pain proceduralist, and assistant clinical professor in Houston, Texas.
Dr. Jacob Fleming
Dr. Jacob Fleming is a diagnostic radiology resident and future MSK interventional radiologist in Dallas, Texas.
Synopsis
The doctors discuss how cryoneurolysis differs from radiofrequency (RF) ablation, highlighting the increased precision and gentleness to surrounding tissues. Dr. Levey describes the specifics of stellate ganglion procedures and cryoneurolysis techniques. They delve into the importance of research and collaboration in advancing the field, as well as the necessity of being patient-centered. They also address the need for financial discussions in medicine and the prospect for cryoneurolysis as a desmoid tumor treatment. To conclude, Dr. Levey shares her journey in building a career as a female in a male-dominated space and emphasizes the importance of physician availability to patients and colleagues.
Timestamps
00:00 - Introduction
03:20 - Dr. Alexa Levey’s Journey and Inspiration
07:00 - Building a Pain Practice
14:03 - Advantages of Cryoneurolysis over RF
21:09 - Patient Selection and Planning for Cryoneurolysis
32:02 - Understanding Patient’s Condition and Treatment Options
36:21 - Role of Stellate Ganglion Procedures in PTSD and Anxiety Management
37:48 - Challenges and Impact of Long COVID
41:34 - The Future of Cryoneurolysis in Medical Practice
54:55 - Future of Cryo Treatment in Medical Practice
Resources
Safety and Effectiveness of Stellate Ganglion Cryoablation in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome:
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jvir.2023.09.030
Treating phantom limb pain: cryoablation of the posterior tibial nerve:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35801126/
Stellate Ganglion Block for Psychiatric Disorders: A Systematic Review of the Clinical Research Landscape:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8664306/
The Efficacy of the Stellate Ganglion Block as a Treatment Modality for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Among Active Duty Combat Veterans: A Pilot Program Evaluation:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33242072/
Stellate Ganglion Block in the Treatment of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder: A Review of Historical and Recent Literature:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27739175/
Stellate ganglion block reduces symptoms of Long COVID: A case series:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8653406/
Stellate Ganglion Block Relieves Long COVID-19 Symptoms in 86% of Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10498998/
Disclaimer: The Materials available on BackTable.com are for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for the professional judgment of a healthcare professional in diagnosing and treating patients. The opinions expressed by participants of the BackTable Podcast belong solely to the participants, and do not necessarily reflect the views of BackTable.