Ep. 37 Cryoneurolysis Pearls and 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. 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 desmoid tumor treatments. Additionally, 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. --- CHECK OUT OUR SPONSOR Boston Scientific Visual ICE Cryoablation System https://www.bostonscientific.com/en-US/products/cryoablation/visual-ice.html --- SHOW NOTES 00:00 - Introduction to RF Ablation and Cryoneurolysis 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/