Pulsed radiofrequency in the treatment of patients with chronic neuropathic spinal pain

Minim Invasive Neurosurg. 2006 Jun;49(3):147-9. doi: 10.1055/s-2006-944238.

Abstract

In recent years there has been debate among spinal surgeons, neurosurgeons and pain physicians regarding the efficacy of radiofrequency (RF) ablation when treating patients with a neuropathic pain source. It is usually considered as a treatment option after conservative treatment has failed. Twenty-eight patients with a minimal follow-up of 1 year were examined in our institution after they had undergone pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) procedures due to neuropathic spinal pain. Nineteen patients (68 %) reported long-term pain relief (more than 1 year) which was defined as a reduction of the visual analogue score by at least 30 %. No complications were found in this study except for mild discomfort in the treated area which spontaneously resolved up to 3 weeks after the procedure. We concluded that PRF is a safe and an effective procedure for patients who suffer from chronic neuropathic pain from spinal origin. It should be tried after conservative treatment has failed.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Back Pain / therapy*
  • Chronic Disease
  • Electrosurgery*
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neuralgia / therapy*
  • Radiofrequency Therapy*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Rhizotomy / methods*
  • Treatment Outcome