CPC A61B 18/148 (2013.01) [A61K 31/245 (2013.01); A61K 31/445 (2013.01); A61K 31/573 (2013.01); A61B 2018/0044 (2013.01); A61B 2018/00595 (2013.01); A61B 2018/00601 (2013.01); A61B 2218/002 (2013.01)] | 29 Claims |
1. A method of performing a rhizotomy on at least one target sensory nerve extending along one or more boney outer surfaces that innervate a joint of a body of a patient, the method comprising:
providing a surgical probe having a distal tip, the distal tip of the surgical probe suitable for performing a percutaneous procedure;
creating an incision in the body of the patient;
directing the distal tip of the probe through the incision;
navigating the distal tip of the probe via medical imaging to a first location on a first boney outer surface adjacent a first target sensory nerve;
activating the probe;
while activating the probe, moving the distal tip of the probe in a plurality of directions over a first surface area along the first boney outer surface to interrupt function of the target sensory nerve; and
deactivating the probe,
wherein the distal tip of the probe is sufficiently stiff to resist deformation when moved over the surface area.
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