1
|
Tereshko Y, Belgrado E, Lettieri C, Dal Bello S, Merlino G, Gigli GL, Valente M. Pulsed Radiofrequency for Auriculotemporal Neuralgia: A Case Report. Neurol Int 2024; 16:349-355. [PMID: 38525705 PMCID: PMC10961751 DOI: 10.3390/neurolint16020025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Auriculotemporal neuralgia is a rare facial pain disorder with no therapeutic evidence for refractory cases. We described a male patient with right auriculotemporal neuralgia, refractory to anesthetic nerve blocks and botulinum toxin type A injections, who was successfully treated with pulsed radiofrequency without adverse events. Pulsed radiofrequency may be an effective and safe treatment for refractory auriculotemporal neuralgia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Tereshko
- Clinical Neurology Unit, Department of Head-Neck and Neurosciences, Udine University Hospital, Piazzale Santa Maria della Misericordia 15, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Enrico Belgrado
- Clinical Neurology Unit, Department of Head-Neck and Neurosciences, Udine University Hospital, Piazzale Santa Maria della Misericordia 15, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Christian Lettieri
- Clinical Neurology Unit, Department of Head-Neck and Neurosciences, Udine University Hospital, Piazzale Santa Maria della Misericordia 15, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Simone Dal Bello
- Clinical Neurology Unit, Department of Head-Neck and Neurosciences, Udine University Hospital, Piazzale Santa Maria della Misericordia 15, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Giovanni Merlino
- Clinical Neurology Unit, Department of Head-Neck and Neurosciences, Udine University Hospital, Piazzale Santa Maria della Misericordia 15, 33100 Udine, Italy
- Department of Medicine (DMED), University of Udine, 33100, Udine, Italy
| | - Gian Luigi Gigli
- Department of Medicine (DMED), University of Udine, 33100, Udine, Italy
| | - Mariarosaria Valente
- Clinical Neurology Unit, Department of Head-Neck and Neurosciences, Udine University Hospital, Piazzale Santa Maria della Misericordia 15, 33100 Udine, Italy
- Department of Medicine (DMED), University of Udine, 33100, Udine, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tsuchiya K, Kobayashi R, Okano I, Taketomi A, Kudo Y, Toyone T, Inagaki K. Effectiveness of Pulsed Radiofrequency Based on the Minimum Clinically Important Differences in Lumbar Spine-Related Pain in Patients without Recent Lumbar Surgery. World Neurosurg 2023; 179:e75-e80. [PMID: 37595839 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2023.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) has been used for treatment of chronic pain in several body regions, including axial and radicular pain. However, a limited number of reports have specifically demonstrated the effectiveness of PRF for spine-related pain among nonsurgical patients. Therefore, we evaluated the effectiveness of PRF for lumbar spine-associated pain in patients without recent spine surgery, and identified the factors associated with clinically meaningful improvement in pain and quality of life. METHODS Records of patients who underwent PRF for lumbar spine-related pain and were followed up over 6 months between 2019 and 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Data on patient demographics, interventional factors, and patient-reported outcomes, such as the numerical rating scale (NRS) and EuroQol Group 5 Dimension 5-Level Quality of Life (EQ-5D-5 L), were collected. Patients were divided into 2 groups (responsive and nonresponsive) based on the NRS and EQ-5D-5 L scores using the previously reported minimal clinically important difference values of the NRS and EQ-5D-5 L as cutoffs, and baseline parameters were compared to identify contributing factors. RESULTS Forty-three patients were included in the final analysis. The NRS and EQ-5D-5 L scores improved significantly at 3 and 6 months after PRF compared to baseline. The groups with NRS and EQ-5D-5 L improvement over the minimal clinically important difference had significantly higher baseline NRS and EQ-5D-5 L scores. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrated that PRF improved pain and patient-reported outcomes for spine-related pain for at least 6 months in our patient cohort. PRF may be a good option for treating lumbar spine-related issues, even with severe pain and/or dysfunction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Koki Tsuchiya
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Reon Kobayashi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ichiro Okano
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Asae Taketomi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshifumi Kudo
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoaki Toyone
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Katsunori Inagaki
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Liang Y, Zhong S, Wang H, Wu D, Gong Q. Comparisons of the analgesic effect of different pulsed radiofrequency targets in SNI-induced neuropathic pain. Neuroreport 2023; 34:720-727. [PMID: 37577901 DOI: 10.1097/wnr.0000000000001946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
An injury of the peripheral nerve may lead to neuropathic pain, which could be treated with pulsed radiofrequency to the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) or peripheral nerve [the nerve trunk (NT) or proximal to the injury site (NI)]. However, it is not clear whether there is any difference in analgesic effect or maintenance among the three targets. PRF was applied to the ipsilateral L5 DRG, peripheral nerve (NT or NI) 5 days after spared nerve injury (SNI). Triptolide (10 µg/kg) or vehicle was intrathecally administered 5 days after SNI for 3 days. Mechanical withdrawal thresholds were tested after treatment at different time points. Furthermore, microglia and the P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) in the ipsilateral spinal cord were measured with immunofluorescence and western blotting, respectively. PRF + NI exerted a more remarkable analgesic effect than PRF + DRG and PRF + NT at the early stage, but PRF + DRG had a stronger analgesic effect than PRF + NI and PRF + NT at the end of our study. In addition, PRF + DRG showed no significant difference from intrathecal administration of triptolide. Moreover, SNI-induced microglia activation and upregulation of P2X7R in spinal dorsal horn could be markedly inhibited by PRF + DRG. The results suggest that the analgesic effect of PRF + DRG increased with time whereas the other two not and microglia and P2X7R in the ipsilateral spinal dorsal horn may be involved in the process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Liang
- Department of Pain Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province
| | - Shuotao Zhong
- Department of Pain Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University
| | - Honghua Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The Affiliated Suzhou Science and Technology Town Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Danlei Wu
- Department of Pain Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University
| | - Qingjuan Gong
- Department of Pain Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Yang F, Lin L, Xia Y, Wu C. Ultrasound-guided pulsed radiofrequency for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder-associated neuropathic pain: A case report. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e32417. [PMID: 36595742 PMCID: PMC9794213 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000032417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuropathic pain (NP) is one of the most prevalent and troublesome symptoms of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), seriously affecting the patient's life. At present, effective treatment for NP induced by NMOSD does not exist. Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF), an emerging microinvasive therapy, alleviates pain and is widely used to treat various types of NP. This is the first report describing a patient with NMOSD-associated NP treated with PRF on the left cervical 6 nerve root. METHODS A 49-year-old female with NMOSD-associated severe NP in the left upper limb and left shoulder tried several medications, but none were effective. She was diagnosed with NP caused by NMOSD.To alleviate severe pain, we performed PRF on the left cervical nerve root under the guidance of ultrasound. This treatment was repeated 3 times. RESULTS The patient's pain was significantly relieved, with a visual analog scale score decreasing from 7-8/10 to 2-3/10, which was maintained during the 3-month follow-up period, without complications. CONCLUSION PRF might be effective for the management of intractable neuropathic pain caused by NMOSD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fei Yang
- Department of Pain, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Liheng Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Yu Xia
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Changxue Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- * Correspondence: Changxue Wu, Department of Anesthesiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, No.25 Taiping Street, Luzhou, Sichuan Province 646000, China. (e-mail: )
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wang CL, Song T. The Clinical Efficacy of High-Voltage Long-Duration Pulsed Radiofrequency Treatment in Pudendal Neuralgia: A Retrospective Study. Neuromodulation 2022; 25:1372-1377. [PMID: 33945192 DOI: 10.1111/ner.13401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with pudendal neuralgia (PN) experience long-lasting chronic pain, hyperalgesia, and comorbid emotional disorders, such as depression and anxiety. Treatment via conventional pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) current carries a significantly high rate of failure. OBJECTIVE To determine the safety and clinical efficacy of high-voltage, long-duration PRF application to the pudendal nerve in patients with PN. STUDY DESIGN Observational retrospective design, self before-after controlled clinical trial. MATERIALS AND METHODS We analyzed the records of 70 patients of our hospital with diagnosed PN. Treatment consisted of PRF application to the pudendal nerve, using computed tomography guidance to target the pudendal nerve at the level of the ischial spine or ischial tuberosity of the affected side. PRF was applied with the following parameters: temperature 42 °C, frequency 2 Hz, pulse width 20 ms, field intensity ramped gradually from 40 to 90 V, duration 900 sec. The therapeutic effect was evaluated by collecting patient scores for the visual analog scale (VAS), SF-36 health survey questionnaire (SF-36), and patient health questionnaire (PHQ-9) before treatment and at 1-, 4-, and 12-week follow-ups after PRF treatment. Data were analyzed by paired t-test with p < 0.05 considered to be statistically significant. RESULTS VAS, SF-36, and PHQ-9 scores at 1, 4, and 12 weeks after high-voltage long-duration PRF treatment were significantly improved relative to their respective pretreatment baseline scores (p < 0.05 for all). The effective rate at 12 weeks after high-voltage long-duration PRF was up to 88.6%. LIMITATIONS A small sample size and lack of a control group. CONCLUSIONS High-voltage long-duration PRF provided significant short-term (at least 12 weeks) pain relief to most patients with PN; it also improved subjective measures of depression and quality of life over the same duration of time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Long Wang
- Department of Pain Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Tao Song
- Department of Pain Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Tekin I, Kosova F. The level pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory biomarkers in patients with chronic mechanical low back pain under pulse radiofrequency therapy. UKRAINIAN BIOCHEMICAL JOURNAL 2022. [DOI: 10.15407/ubj94.03.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Low back pain is a frequent and recurrent condition, often with a non-specific cause. Conventional treatment methods are generally insufficient in the treatment of chronic low back pain. The aim of the study was to estimate the level of IFN, IL-1, IL-6 (proinflammatory), IL-10, IL-4 (anti-inflammatory) and VEGF proteins in the serum of patients with chronic mechanical low back pain under Pulse radiofrequency (PRF) therapy. The study was carried out on 40 patients 20-60 years old, diagnosed with chronic low back pain for at least 4 months, primary complaint on lumbosacral low back pain, pain intensity VAS (visual analog scale) score of 5 and above, not responding well to conservative treatment (analgesic drugs, physiotherapy, etc.). Therapeutic Radiofrequency applications were carried out with an RF generator (RFG 3C Plus, Radionics). Blood samples were taken 1 day before interventional treatment (control), then 1 day (group1) and 15 days (group 2) after. The serum level of IFN, IL-1, IL-6, IL-10, IL-4 and VEGF l was analyzed with ELISA test. It was shown that as a result of PRF treatment the level of IL-1 was decreased while the levels of IL-4 and IL-6 were increased. It was concluded that the increase in serum levels of proinflammatory cytokines may be correlated with the severity of pain and that the increase in the level of anti-inflammatory cytokines reduces pain by reducing inflammation. Keywords: chronic low back pain, cytokines, radiofrequency therapy
Collapse
|
7
|
Chang MC, Yang S. Effectiveness of pulsed radiofrequency on the medial cervical branches for cervical facet joint pain. World J Clin Cases 2022; 10:7720-7727. [PMID: 36158472 PMCID: PMC9372847 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i22.7720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cervical facet joint pain (CFP) is one of the most common causes of neck pain and headache. Persistent CFP deteriorates the quality of life of patients and reduces their productivity at work.
AIM To investigate the effectiveness of pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) stimulation of cervical medial branches in patients with chronic CFP.
METHODS We retrospectively included 21 consecutive patients (age = 50.9 ± 15.3 years, range 26-79 years; male: female = 8:13; pain duration = 7.7 ± 5.0 mo) with chronic CFP, defined as ≥ 4 on the numeric rating scale (NRS). We performed PRF stimulation on the cervical medial branches. The outcomes of the PRF procedure were evaluated by comparing the NRS scores for CFP before treatment and 1 and 3 mo after treatment. Successful pain relief was defined as a ≥ 50% reduction in the NRS score at 3 mo when compared with the pretreatment NRS score.
RESULTS No patient had immediate or late adverse effects following PRF. The average NRS score for CFP decreased from 5.3 ± 1.1 at pre-treatment to 2.4 ± 0.6 at the 1 mo follow-up, and 3.1 ± 1.1 at the 3 mo follow-up. Compared to the NRS scores before PRF stimulation, those at 1 and 3 mo after PRF stimulation had significantly decreased. Eleven of the 21 patients (52.4%) reported successful pain relief 3 mo after the PRF procedure. PRF stimulation on cervical medial branches may be a useful therapeutic option to control chronic CFP.
CONCLUSION PRF stimulation of the cervical medial branches may be used as an alternative treatment method in patients with CFP. PRF can effectively alleviate CFP, and is safe to perform.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min Cheol Chang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Taegu 42415, South Korea
| | - Seoyon Yang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, School of Medicine, Ewha Woman's University Seoul Hospital, Seoul 07804, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Park D, Chang MC. The mechanism of action of pulsed radiofrequency in reducing pain: a narrative review. JOURNAL OF YEUNGNAM MEDICAL SCIENCE 2022; 39:200-205. [PMID: 35385898 PMCID: PMC9273139 DOI: 10.12701/jyms.2022.00101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Pain from nervous or musculoskeletal disorders is one of the most common complaints in clinical practice. Corticosteroids have a high pain-reducing effect, and their injection is generally used to control various types of pain. However, they have various adverse effects including flushing, hyperglycemia, allergic reactions, menstrual changes, immunosuppression, and adrenal suppression. Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) is known to have a pain-reducing effect similar to that of corticosteroid injection, with nearly no major side effects. Therefore, it has been widely used to treat various types of pain, such as neuropathic, joint, discogenic, and muscle pain. In the current review, we outlined the pain-reducing mechanisms of PRF by reviewing previous studies. When PRF was first introduced, it was supposed to reduce pain by long-term depression of pain signaling from the peripheral nerve to the central nervous system. In addition, deactivation of microglia at the level of the spinal dorsal horn, reduction of proinflammatory cytokines, increased endogenous opioid precursor messenger ribonucleic acid, enhancement of noradrenergic and serotonergic descending pain inhibitory pathways, suppression of excitation of C-afferent fibers, and microscopic damage of nociceptive C- and A-delta fibers have been found to contribute to pain reduction after PRF application. However, the pain-reducing mechanism of PRF has not been clearly and definitely elucidated. Further studies are warranted to clarify the pain-reducing mechanism of PRF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Donghwi Park
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Min Cheol Chang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
- Corresponding Author: Min Cheol Chang, MD Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, 170 Hyeonchung-ro, Nam-gu, Daegu 42415, Korea Tel: +82-53-620-4682 • Fax: +0504-231-8694 • E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Lee SH, Choi HH, Chang MC. Comparison between ultrasound-guided monopolar and bipolar pulsed radiofrequency treatment for refractory chronic cervical radicular pain: A randomized trial. J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil 2022; 35:583-588. [PMID: 34542059 DOI: 10.3233/bmr-201842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many patients complain of chronic cervical radicular pain, and pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) is known to have a positive effect for alleviating neuropathic pain. OBJECTIVES In the present study, we used ultrasound (US) guidance and compared the effects of monopolar PRF with those of bipolar PRF in patients with chronic cervical radicular pain refractory to repeated transforaminal epidural steroid injections. METHODS Sixty-six patients with chronic cervical radicular pain were included in this study. Patients were randomly assigned to one of the two groups: monopolar or bipolar PRF group (n= 33 per group). Pain intensity was evaluated using a numeric rating scale (NRS) at pretreatment, and at 1 and 3 months after the treatment. Target stimulation site was the extraforaminal nerve root. RESULTS Compared to the pretreatment NRS scores, patients in both groups showed a significant decrease in NRS scores at 1 and 3 months after the treatment. Reductions in the NRS scores over time were significantly larger in the bipolar PRF group. Three months after the treatment, 18 patients (54.5%) in the monopolar PRF group and 27 (81.8%) in the bipolar PRF group reported successful pain relief (pain relief of ⩾50%). CONCLUSIONS US-guided PRF can be an effective interventional technique for the management of chronic refractory cervical radiculopathy. Moreover, bipolar PRF has better treatment outcome than monopolar PRF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sang Hoon Lee
- Department of Radiology, Madi Pain Management Center, Jeonju, Korea
| | | | - Min Cheol Chang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Daegu, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Kim DH, Jeong KW, Jo W, Lee SY, Im JA, Jung JY. Therapeutic effect of intradiscal pulsed radiofrequency on internal disc disruption: A case report. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e28831. [PMID: 35147124 PMCID: PMC8830845 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000028831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Discogenic low back pain often persists despite medication and medical intervention. In this study, intradiscal pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) was performed in a patient with discogenic low back pain who did not respond to oral medication, posterior medial branch block, epidural steroid injection, and percutaneous epidural adhesiolysis. PATIENT CONCERNS A 28-year-old woman visited a pain clinic complaining of low back pain that was scored 8 out of 10 on a numerical rating scale. Her pain was present in any position throughout the day and worsened in the sitting position. DIAGNOSES Magnetic resonance imaging showed L5-S1 internal discal disruption. Based on the medical history, physical examination, and magnetic resonance imaging, we determined that her pain originated from the L5-S1 disc. INTERVENTIONS We performed an intradiscal PRF on the affected disc under C-arm fluoroscopy guidance. PRF was performed at 5 Hz, 20-ms pulse width, and 70 V for 15 minutes while ensuring that the electrode tip temperature was maintained below 42°C. OUTCOMES Immediately after the procedure, the patient's pain subsided. At the 1-month follow-up visit, the patient reported complete relief of her low back pain. The Oswestry disability index, which indicates the degree of disability, improved significantly. She also reported that she could sit for long periods because the pain was reduced. No adverse effects from the procedure were found. LESSONS Applying intradiscal PRF seems an effective and safe technique for treating discogenic low back pain.
Collapse
|
11
|
Jo JH, Jang Y, Chung G, Chung JW, Park JW. Long-term efficacy and patient satisfaction of pulsed radiofrequency therapy in temporomandibular disorders: A randomized controlled trial. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e28441. [PMID: 34967382 PMCID: PMC8718209 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000028441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pulse radiofrequency (PRF) therapy is one of effective physical therapy modalities for treat temporomandibular disorders (TMD). This prospective randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate the long-term treatment efficacy and patient satisfaction with PRF therapy in TMD. METHODS Eighty-six female patients with TMD were randomly assigned to either pulsed radiofrequency or placebo therapy in combination with other conventional treatments once a week for 12 weeks. A final analysis was performed 12 weeks after the completion of treatment. Clinical parameters and patient satisfaction were analyzed at baseline, 4, 8, and 12 weeks of intervention and at 24 weeks from baseline. RESULTS Pain intensity, comfortable and maximum mouth opening, and pain on capsule and masticatory muscle palpation were significantly improved after treatment in both groups. Notably, the pulsed radiofrequency group showed a significantly lower pain intensity at the final evaluation performed 3 months after the completion of treatment. Significantly more patients reported subjective pain improvement and satisfaction with treatment following intervention at baseline in the PRF group. Most patients did not report any discomfort following treatment in either group. However, significantly more patients in the PRF group reported a burning sensation with intervention. CONCLUSION Long-term regular pulsed radiofrequency therapy was effective in significantly reducing TMD pain, and the effect was long-lasting following treatment completion. Pulsed radiofrequency therapy should be considered as a supportive physical therapy modality for TMD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jung Hwan Jo
- Department of Oral Medicine, Seoul National University Dental Hospital, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Oral Medicine and Oral Diagnosis, School of Dentistry, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yewon Jang
- Department of Oral Medicine, Seoul National University Dental Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Gehoon Chung
- Department of Oral Physiology and Program in Neurobiology, School of Dentistry, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
- Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin Woo Chung
- Department of Oral Medicine, Seoul National University Dental Hospital, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Oral Medicine and Oral Diagnosis, School of Dentistry, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
- Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji Woon Park
- Department of Oral Medicine, Seoul National University Dental Hospital, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Oral Medicine and Oral Diagnosis, School of Dentistry, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
- Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Marliana A, Setyopranoto I, Setyaningsih I, Rhatomy S. The Effect of Pulsed Radiofrequency on Radicular Pain in Lumbal Herniated Nucleus Pulposus: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Anesth Pain Med 2021; 11:e111420. [PMID: 34336613 PMCID: PMC8314080 DOI: 10.5812/aapm.111420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Context Radiofrequency therapy is a medical procedure mainly used to reduce pain with a low complication rate (less than 1%), ease of application, and low cost. This review's objective was to (1) evaluate the pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) effectiveness in treating radicular pain and (2) assess the PRF procedure's safety in managing radicular pain in lumbar herniated nucleus pulposus (HNP). Methods A systematic review and meta-analysis. A tertiary care center and an academic medical center. Six full articles with the following features were selected for this review: (1) Articles published in English; (2) studies on the PRF effect on radicular pain in lumbar HNP; and (3) randomized control trials. Results The studies showed that the PRF group had a reduction in pain scores at each evaluation. In four of the studies, the PRF group showed a more significant reduction in pain scores than the control, and in two of the studies, the reduction in pain scores was not significant in the PRF group compared to the control. An adverse effect was reported in one patient experiencing increased radicular pain after PRF. Lack of data required for statistical analysis, and lack use of a uniform duration for the PRF procedure by all the studies. Conclusions PRF can be used as a promising clinical recommendation for pain management with minimally invasive radicular pain techniques due to lumbar HNP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anita Marliana
- Department of Neurology, Dr. Sardjito General Hospital, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
- Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Ismail Setyopranoto
- Department of Neurology, Dr. Sardjito General Hospital, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
- Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Indarwati Setyaningsih
- Department of Neurology, Dr. Sardjito General Hospital, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
- Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Sholahuddin Rhatomy
- Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Dr. Soeradji Tirtonegoro General Hospital, Klaten, Indonesia
- Corresponding Author: Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Dr. Soeradji Tirtonegoro General Hospital, Klaten, Indonesia.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Yang S, Boudier-Revéret M, Chang MC. Use of Pulsed Radiofrequency for the Treatment of Discogenic Back Pain: A Narrative Review. Pain Pract 2020; 21:594-601. [PMID: 33296544 DOI: 10.1111/papr.12978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low-back pain (LBP) is one of the most frequently reported symptoms of patients who visit pain clinics, and a significant proportion of them have discogenic pain. Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) stimulation is an effective treatment for various types of pain. PURPOSE We reviewed articles which investigated the effectiveness of intradiscal PRF for controlling discogenic LBP. METHODS AND MATERIALS We searched PubMed for papers published prior to August 7, 2020, in which intradiscal PRF was used for treating discogenic LBP. The key search phrase was (intradiscal PRF) for identifying potentially relevant articles. We included articles in which intradiscal PRF was used for controlling LBP. Review articles were excluded. RESULTS Nine publications were included in this review. Except for one study, all other studies showed positive therapeutic outcomes after treating discogenic LBP using intradiscal PRF. However, the quality of these studies was not high. CONCLUSIONS This review showed that intradiscal PRF appears to be a helpful treatment method for patients with discogenic LBP. Our review provides insights into the degree of evidence of the therapeutic effects of intradiscal PRF for alleviating discogenic LBP. For confirmation of the effectiveness of intradiscal PRF on discogenic LBP, more high-quality studies are necessary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seoyon Yang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Ewha Woman's University Seoul Hospital, Ewha Woman's University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Mathieu Boudier-Revéret
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Min Cheol Chang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Daegu, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Han Z, Hong T, Ding Y, Wang S, Yao P. CT-Guided Pulsed Radiofrequency at Different Voltages in the Treatment of Postherpetic Neuralgia. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:579486. [PMID: 33390880 PMCID: PMC7775564 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.579486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a form of long-lasting neuropathic pain that can severely affect patients’ quality of life. Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) has been proven to be effective in treating PHN, but the optimal radiofrequency parameters are still not well defined. This retrospective study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of CT-guided PRF at three different voltages for the treatment of PHN patients. Methods This study included 109 patients with PHN involving the thoracic dermatome who were treated in the Department of Pain Management of Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, from January 2017 to May 2019. They were divided into three groups based on the PRF voltage used: group A (45 V), group B (55 V), and group C (65 V). The PRF therapy (voltage 45, 55, and 65 V) was performed in all patients by targeting the thoracic dorsal root ganglion. After surgery, patients were followed at 3 days, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months. Observation at each follow-up included basic patient characteristics, visual analog scale (VAS), 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) scores, patient satisfaction, complications, and side effects. Results Visual analog scale scores decreased and SF-36 scores increased for all patients in the three groups at each post-operative time point (1, 3, 6, and 12 months; all P < 0.01). Pain relief, improvement in quality of life, and overall satisfaction were more significant for patients in group C than for those in groups A and B at the 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-ups (all P < 0.05). Patients in group B had lower VAS scores and higher overall satisfaction levels than those in group A (both P < 0.01). A small number of patients from each group (n ≤ 3) experienced mild intraoperative and post-operative complications, which bore no relationship with group assignment (all P > 0.05). At post-operative day 3, patients in group C had skin numbness affecting a larger area than patients in the other two groups (both P < 0.05), but the differences were no longer statistically significant at day 30 after the operation. All patients experienced a drop in numbness area of more than 30% after surgery. Conclusion Compared with PFR at 45 and 55 V, PFR at 65 V had superior efficacy in treating PNH, with a favorable safety profile.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenkai Han
- Department of Pain Management, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Tao Hong
- Department of Pain Management, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yuanyuan Ding
- Department of Pain Management, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Shimeng Wang
- Department of Pain Management, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Peng Yao
- Department of Pain Management, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Cho HK, Park GY, Sung WJ, Kawk SG, Jung WB. Effects of intra-articular pulsed radiofrequency current administration on a rabbit model of rheumatoid arthritis. Exp Ther Med 2020; 20:29. [PMID: 32952620 PMCID: PMC7480132 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2020.9157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by synovial proliferation and inflammation. Intra-articular corticosteroid injections are commonly used for the treatment of arthritis affecting one or two joints. Although corticosteroid injections are fast-acting, repeated usage can result in severe adverse events. Recently, intra-articular pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) stimulation has been proposed to treat arthritis. The aim of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of intra-articular PRF with corticosteroid injection based on histopathological and motion analysis of an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced RA rabbit model. RA was induced in the right knee joint of 18 rabbits via OVA injection. The rabbits were randomly allocated into a PRF, an intra-articular corticosteroid injection or a sham PRF stimulation group. Movement was assessed in the rabbits before treatment, then at 2, 4 and 8 weeks after treatment using walking distance, fast walking time and mean walking speed. Histopathological evaluation of the distal femur and synovium was conducted 2, 4 and 8 weeks after treatment. Motion analysis demonstrated that changes in all movement variables showed significant group and time interaction as well as group effect among the three groups. The semiquantitative score based on the histopathological findings for the distal femoral condyle decreased 2 and 4 weeks after both the PRF and steroid groups, compared with the sham PRF group. Moreover, in the synovium, the semiquantitative histological score in the PRF and steroid groups tended to be lower compared with the sham PRF group, although this result was not statistically significant. Thus, intra-articular PRF stimulation may delay cartilage destruction and improve functional motion in RA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hee Kyung Cho
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu 42472, Republic of Korea
| | - Gi-Young Park
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu 42472, Republic of Korea
| | - Woo Jung Sung
- Department of Pathology, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu 42472, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Gyu Kawk
- Department of Medical Statistics, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu 42472, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Bin Jung
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Seongju Moo Gang Hospital, Seongju 40026, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Park CH, Lee SH. The Outcome of Pulsed Radiofrequency Treatment According to Electodiagnosis in Patients with Intractable Lumbosacral Radicular Pain. PAIN MEDICINE 2020; 20:1697-1701. [PMID: 30848820 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnz028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radicular pain is related to lesions that either directly compromise the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) or indirectly compromise the spinal nerve and its roots by causing ischemia or inflammation of the axons. OBJECTIVE Our study aimed to assess the outcomes of pulsed readiofrequency treatment (PRF) according to electrodiagnosis results in patients with chronic intractable lumbosacral radicular pain. METHODS A total of 82 failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) patients were included in this study. All of them underwent electromyography/nerve conduction studies before pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) treatment at the DRG, and they were classified according to the electrodiagnostic results as: group 1, no definite finding (normal); group 2, radiculopathy; and group 3, neuropathy. Pain intensity was assessed according to a numeric rating scale score and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) before treatment and at one, three, six, and 12 months after treatment, and successful treatment was defined as a pain score reduction of ≥50% at 12 months, as compared with the pretreatment score. RESULTS Pretreatment electrodiagnosis identified 28 patients with no definite findings, 31 patients with radiculopathy, and 23 patients with neuropathy. The patients with neuropathy had less pain relief after treatment than those with no definite findings and those with radiculopathy. The prevalence of pain reduction of at least 50% was lower in the neuropathy group than in the other groups. There was no statistically significant difference in ODI between group. CONCLUSION Outcomes after PRF at the DRG did not show strong differences according to electrodiagnostic findings in FBSS patients with chronic intractable lumbosacral radicular pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chan Hong Park
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Daegu Wooridul Spine Hospital, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Sang Ho Lee
- Department of Neurosurgery, Wooridul Spine Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Chang MC. Conservative Treatments Frequently Used for Chronic Pain Patients in Clinical Practice: A Literature Review. Cureus 2020; 12:e9934. [PMID: 32968595 PMCID: PMC7505614 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.9934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain is a common patient complaint in clinical practice. It results in the deterioration of patients’ quality of life and loss of productivity. Also, it often brings about psychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety. Therefore, clinicians should manage chronic pain actively. Various conservative treatments, including pharmacological therapy, procedures, and exercise, are being used to control chronic pain. In this review article, I provide an overview of the commonly used treatments, including medication [anticonvulsants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids, antidepressants], procedures [injection of steroids and local anesthetics, pulsed radiofrequency (PRF), repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), prolotherapy], and exercise. A brief overview of these treatments would allow clinicians to have an overall picture of the available tools for managing chronic pain in clinical practice at a glance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min Cheol Chang
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Daegu, KOR
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Li H, Meng H, Yang YY, Huang JX, Chen YJ, Yang F, Yan JZ. A double-network hydrogel for the dynamic compression of the lumbar nerve root. Neural Regen Res 2020; 15:1724-1731. [PMID: 32209779 PMCID: PMC7437591 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.276361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Current animal models of nerve root compression due to lumbar disc herniation only assess the mechanical compression of nerve roots and the inflammatory response. Moreover, the pressure applied in these models is static, meaning that the nerve root cannot be dynamically compressed. This is very different from the pathogenesis of lumbar disc herniation. In this study, a chitosan/polyacrylamide double-network hydrogel was prepared by a simple two-step method. The swelling ratio of the double-network hydrogel increased with prolonged time, reaching 140. The compressive strength and compressive modulus of the hydrogel reached 53.6 and 0.34 MPa, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy revealed the hydrogel’s crosslinked structure with many interconnecting pores. An MTT assay demonstrated that the number of viable cells in contact with the hydrogel extracts did not significantly change relative to the control surface. Thus, the hydrogel had good biocompatibility. Finally, the double-network hydrogel was used to compress the L4 nerve root of male sand rats to simulate lumbar disc herniation nerve root compression. The hydrogel remained in its original position after compression, and swelled with increasing time. Edema appeared around the nerve root and disappeared 3 weeks after operation. This chitosan/polyacrylamide double-network hydrogel has potential as a new implant material for animal models of lumbar nerve root compression. All animal experiments were approved by the Animal Ethics Committee of Neurosurgical Institute of Beijing, Capital Medical University, China (approval No. 201601006) on July 29, 2016.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Li
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hua Meng
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yan-Yu Yang
- Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing; Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Jia-Xi Huang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yong-Jie Chen
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Yang
- Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, China
| | - Jia-Zhi Yan
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Cho JH, Lee DG. Translocation of AMPA Receptors in the Dorsal Horn of the Spinal Cord Corresponding to Long-term Depression Following Pulsed Radiofrequency Stimulation at the Dorsal Root Ganglion. PAIN MEDICINE 2019; 21:1913-1920. [DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnz307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Objective
Pulsed radiofrequency stimulation at the dorsal root ganglion is used for treatment of radicular pain; however, its mechanism for neuropathic pain treatment has not been fully elucidated. Here, we investigated whether pulsed radiofrequency stimulation affects the α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptors, which play a critical role in synaptic plasticity.
Methods
Neuropathic pain was studied using a radicular neuropathic pain model (43 female Sprague-Dawley rats; 200–250 g). In total, 28 rats were assigned to the following groups for fraction analysis: a control group, a control + pulsed radiofrequency stimulation group, a disc pain group, and a disc pain + pulsed radiofrequency stimulation group. For nonfraction analysis of Glutamate A1 (GluA1) and GluA2 subunits, a total of 15 female Sprague-Dawley rats were assigned to a control group, a disc pain group, and a disc pain + pulsed radiofrequency stimulation group. Pulsed radiofrequency stimulation and subsequent analysis were conducted three days after surgery.
Results
AMPA receptor subunits, GluA1 and GluA2, in the radicular neuropathic pain model were upregulated compared with those in the control group three days after surgery. Pulsed radiofrequency stimulation induced the translocation of GluA1 and GluA2 subunits from the synaptosome to cytosol without a change in the total amount of AMPA receptors in the dorsal horn.
Conclusions
Our results demonstrated that pulsed radiofrequency stimulation affected the synaptic plasticity corresponding to long-term depression. Thus, we show that long-term depression from pulsed radiofrequency stimulation is associated with analgesic effects in the radicular neuropathic pain model following peripheral inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jang Hyuk Cho
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Gyu Lee
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
De M, Mohan VK, Bhoi D, Talawar P, Kumar A, Garg B, Trikha A, Dehran M, Kashyap L, Shende DR. Transforaminal Epidural Injection of Local Anesthetic and Dorsal Root Ganglion Pulsed Radiofrequency Treatment in Lumbar Radicular Pain: A Randomized, Triple-Blind, Active-Control Trial. Pain Pract 2019; 20:154-167. [PMID: 31538405 DOI: 10.1111/papr.12840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2019] [Revised: 08/10/2019] [Accepted: 09/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lumbar radicular pain (LRP) results from inflammation and irritation of lumbar spinal nerves and the dorsal root ganglion (DRG). METHODS Our study is a prospective, triple-blind, randomized, activecontrol trial (CTRI/2016/02/006666) comparing transforaminal epidural local anesthetic (LA) injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment of DRG in patients with chronic LRP. Patients with LRP after failed conservative management for >3 months received selective diagnostic nerve root block with 1 mL 2% lidocaine. Fifty patients showing positive responses were divided into groups of 25 each. The LA group received transforaminal epidural injection of 1 mL 0.5% bupivacaine. The lumbar pulsed radiofrequency (LPRF) group received transforaminal epidural injection of 1 mL 0.5% bupivacaine with 3 cycles of pulsed radiofrequency of the DRG for 180 seconds RESULTS: Both groups were compared by observing pain intensity on a 0- to 100-point VAS and improvement in functional status by the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI version 2.0) at 2 weeks and 1, 2, 3, and 6 months. All baseline variables were comparable between the 2 groups. Statistically significant reduction in both outcomes was seen in the LPRF group compared to the LA group from 2 weeks to 6 months. One hundred percent of patients in the LPRF group had a ≥20- point decrease in VAS and significant percentage reduction in ODI at all time intervals up to 6 months, whereas it was seen in 80% and 28% of patients in the LA group at 3 and 6 months, respectively. No complications were seen in any patients CONCLUSION: Pulsed radiofrequency of the DRG applied for longer duration results in long-term pain relief and improvement in the functional quality of life in patients with chronic LRP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manish De
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Pain Medicine and Critical Care, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Virender K Mohan
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Pain Medicine and Critical Care, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Debesh Bhoi
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Pain Medicine and Critical Care, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Praveen Talawar
- Department of Anaesthesiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh, India
| | - Ajeet Kumar
- Department of Anaesthesiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, India
| | - Bhavuk Garg
- Department of Orthopaedics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Anjan Trikha
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Pain Medicine and Critical Care, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Maya Dehran
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Pain Medicine and Critical Care, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Lokesh Kashyap
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Pain Medicine and Critical Care, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Dilip R Shende
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Pain Medicine and Critical Care, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Dorsal root ganglion pulsed radiofrequency treatment for chronic cervical radicular pain: a retrospective review of outcomes in fifty-nine cases. Ir J Med Sci 2019; 189:299-303. [PMID: 31441007 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-019-02087-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Pulsed radiofrequency treatment adjacent to the cervical dorsal root ganglion is used to treat persistent cervical radicular pain that has not responded to conservative therapies. This technique has gained popularity in years for both cervical and lumbosacral radicular pain. The evidence to support its use is still evolving. METHODS We performed a retrospective review of outcomes in 59 patients who underwent this therapy over a 3-year period in our institution. We evaluated a reduction in pain, duration of pain relief, reduction in use of analgesics and progression to surgery. RESULTS Our results demonstrated 49 patients experienced some relief. Forty patients of the 59 experienced an improvement in pain of 50% or more. The mean duration of relief in this group was 37 weeks. Seven patients experienced complete resolution of their pain. In this group, the mean duration of relief was 39 weeks. Regarding the 53 patients who were taking medication for pain prior to the procedure, 37 patients reduced or discontinued their usage after the procedure. CONCLUSION Despite the limitations of a retrospective study, we feel our study adds to the growing evidence base that pulsed radiofrequency treatment adjacent to the cervical dorsal root ganglion has a role in the treatment of chronic cervical radicular pain.
Collapse
|
22
|
Kwak S, Jeong D, Choo YJ, Chang MC. Management of neuropathic pain induced by cubital tunnel syndrome using pulsed radiofrequency: Two case reports. Medicine (Baltimore) 2019; 98:e15599. [PMID: 31124936 PMCID: PMC6571371 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000015599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Recently, pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) has been applied to alleviate neuropathic pain caused by various peripheral nerve pathologies. This report describes and discusses the cases of 2 patients with cubital tunnel syndrome who responded well to PRF for the management of neuropathic pain. PATIENT CONCERNS Patients 1 and 2 presented with numeric rating scale (NRS) scores of 4 and 3 for neuropathic pain due to right cubital tunnel syndrome, respectively. DIAGNOSES Cubital tunnel syndrome was confirmed by nerve conduction study/electromyography. INTERVENTIONS PRF stimulation of the right ulnar nerve was performed at the medial epicondyle level under the guidance of ultrasound. OUTCOMES At the 2-week and 1-, 2-, 3-, and 6-month follow-up assessments after the PRF procedure, the pain of patient 1 was completely relieved. In patient 2, at the 2-week follow-up, the pain was completely relieved, and at the 1-, 2-, 3-, and 6-month follow-up assessments, the NRS score was 1. No adverse effects were observed in either patient. LESSONS PRF on the ulnar nerve seems to be a useful tool for treating neuropathic pain due to cubital tunnel syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Daeun Jeong
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Daegu
| | - Yoo Jin Choo
- Department of Rehabilitation Science, Graduate School of Hanseo University, Seosan-si, Republic of Korea
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Microglial BDNF, PI3K, and p-ERK in the Spinal Cord Are Suppressed by Pulsed Radiofrequency on Dorsal Root Ganglion to Ease SNI-Induced Neuropathic Pain in Rats. Pain Res Manag 2019; 2019:5948686. [PMID: 31182984 PMCID: PMC6512068 DOI: 10.1155/2019/5948686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Background Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) on the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) has been applied to alleviate neuropathic pain effectively, yet the mechanisms underlying pain reduction owing to this treatment are not clarified completely. The activated microglia, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), and phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (p-ERK) in the spinal cord were demonstrated to be involved in developing neuropathic pain. Also, it has been just known that PRF on DRG inhibits the microglial activation in nerve injury rats. Here, we aim to investigate whether PRF treatment could regulate the levels of BDNF, PI3K, and p-ERK in the spinal cord of rats with spared nerve injury (SNI) via suppressing the spinal microglia activation to ease neuropathic pain. Methods The rats with SNI were intrathecally treated with minocycline (specific microglia inhibitor) or same volume of dimethyl sulfoxide once daily, beginning from 1 h before nerve transection to 7 days. PRF was applied adjacent to the L4-L5 DRG of rats with SNI at 45 V for 6 min on the seventh postoperative day, whereas the free-PRF rats were treated without PRF. The withdrawal thresholds were studied, and the spinal levels of ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1 (Iba1), BDNF, PI3K, and p-ERK were calculated by western blot analysis, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, and immunofluorescence. Results The paw withdrawal mechanical threshold and paw withdrawal thermal latency decreased in the ipsilateral hind paws after SNI, and the spinal levels of Iba1, BDNF, PI3K, and p-ERK increased on day 21 after SNI compared with baseline (P < 0.01). An intrathecal injection of minocycline led to the reversal of SNI-induced allodynia and increase in levels of Iba1, BDNF, PI3K, and p-ERK. Withdrawal thresholds recovered partially after a single PRF treatment for 14 days, and SNI-induced microglia hyperactivity, BDNF upregulation, and PI3K and ERK phosphorylation in the spinal cord reduced on D14 due to the PRF procedure. Conclusion Microglial BDNF, PI3K, and p-ERK in the spinal cord are suppressed by the therapy of PRF on DRG to ease SNI-induced neuropathic pain in rats.
Collapse
|
24
|
Kwak S, Chang MC. Management of refractory chronic migraine using ultrasound-guided pulsed radiofrequency of greater occipital nerve: Two case reports. Medicine (Baltimore) 2018; 97:e13127. [PMID: 30407333 PMCID: PMC6250499 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000013127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Although various oral medications and procedures are applied for managing migraine, their efficacy remains limited. To control migraine that does not respond to conventional treatments, we conducted pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) stimulation to the greater occipital nerve (GON) in 2 patients. PATIENT CONCERNS Patients 1 and 2 complained of chronic throbbing, pulsating, and tight headaches. Their headache intensities scored 8 and 7 on a numeric rating scale (NRS), respectively. Patient 1 experienced the headache bilaterally in the frontal, retro-orbital, parietal, and occipital regions. The initial onset of the symptoms was more than 15 years ago. Patient 2 complained of headaches in the left frontal, retro-orbital, parietal, and occipital regions, which occurred first more than 14 years ago. DIAGNOSES According to the International Classification of Headache Disorder-3 beta criteria, the patients were diagnosed with chronic migraine. INTERVENTIONS Oral medications, GON block with bupivacaine and dexamethasone, and botulinum toxin injections did not alleviate the patients' migraine.The PRF stimulation on GON was performed under the guidance of ultrasound, at 5 Hz and 5-millisecond pulsed width for 360 seconds at 45 V. The electrode tip temperature was maintained at or below 42°C. OUTCOMES Two weeks after applying PRF, the pain was reduced to NRS 3 in both patients, who also reported that the headache became bearable after PRF. The effectiveness of PRF on GON lasted for at least 3 months in both patients, and no adverse effects were observed. LESSONS Our findings suggested that the application of PRF on GON can be a useful option for treating refractory chronic migraine.
Collapse
|
25
|
Ding Y, Li H, Hong T, Zhao R, Yao P, Zhao G. Efficacy and Safety of Computed Tomography-Guided Pulsed Radiofrequency Modulation of Thoracic Dorsal Root Ganglion on Herpes Zoster Neuralgia. Neuromodulation 2018; 22:108-114. [PMID: 30288853 DOI: 10.1111/ner.12858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2018] [Revised: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) can relieve postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) caused by herpes zoster (HZ) infection. Nevertheless, its curative effect can vary and may be related to the duration of treatment period. The following study investigates the efficacy and safety of CT-guided PRF modulation on HZ neuralgia over different periods and different time points. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 150 patients with HZ/PHN were enrolled at the Pain Department, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University between January 2013 and December 2016. According to the course of disease, the patients were randomly divided into group A, which included patients with acute stage (n = 50; course <1 m); group B, which included patients with subacute stage (n = 50; 1 m <course <3 m); and group C, which included patients with chronic stage (n = 50; course >3 m). The PRF therapy was performed in all patients by targeting thoracic dorsal root ganglion (DRG). The visual analogue scale (VAS), SF-36, total effective rate of treatment, and dosage of antiepileptic analgesic drugs were observed at different time points, before and after the surgery. RESULTS Compared to preoperative time, decreased VAS, improved SF-36, and the decreased dosage of antiepileptic analgesic drugs were observed at all time points, and in all groups after surgery (p < 0.05). In group A, pain relief lasted longer, and it further decreased over time. In addition, significantly lower VAS, higher SF-36, and lower dosage of antiepileptic analgesic drugs were found in group A compared to group B, and in group B compared to group C (all p < 0.05). Furthermore, the total effective rates in groups A, B, and C were 88, 72, and 52%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS CT-guided PRF targeting thoracic DRG for modulation of HZ neuralgia in different periods is safe and effective. It is recommended to perform early intervention therapy at the acute phase of HZ.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Ding
- Department of Pain Management, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Hongxi Li
- Department of Pain Management, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Tao Hong
- Department of Pain Management, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Rongjie Zhao
- Class 5 of 2020 Session, Shenyang No. 20 High School, Shenyang, China
| | - Peng Yao
- Department of Pain Management, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Guangyi Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Ding Y, Li H, Zhu Y, Yao P, Zhao G. Transforaminal epidural steroid injection combined with pulsed radio frequency on spinal nerve root for the treatment of lumbar disc herniation. J Pain Res 2018; 11:1531-1539. [PMID: 30147357 PMCID: PMC6097521 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s174318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lumbar disc herniation (LDH) is a common disease in clinical practice. The symptoms recur and are aggravated by time; severe pain and long-term movement disorder cause physiological and psychological problems that affect the quality of life of patients. Therefore, relieving the pain symptoms and promoting functional recovery are the primary goals that have gained increased attention. Objective To assess the efficacy of CT-guided transforaminal epidural steroid injection (TFESI) combined with pulsed radio frequency (PRF) on spinal nerve root for the treatment of LDH. Study design Retrospective comparative study. Setting Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University. Methods A total of 135 patients with LDH were selected from the Department of Pain Management in the Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University between January 2014 and December 2016. All patients were divided into three groups according to the order of entry (n=45): TFESI (group A); PRF on spinal nerve root (group B); and TFESI combined with PRF on spinal nerve root (group C). The visual analog scale (VAS), Oswestry disability index (ODI), and global perceived effect (GPE) before treatment and at different time points after treatment were observed, and patients' satisfaction was assessed. Results At every point of observation, the VAS and ODI decreased significantly as compared to that before treatment in all groups (P<0.05). The VAS and ODI in group A at 3 and 6 months after treatment were significantly higher than that in the other two groups (P<0.05). At day 1, day 14, and 1 month after treatment, the VAS and ODI in group C were significantly lower than that in group B (P<0.05). The GPE in group C was high in the early days, while that at day 14 and 1 month after treatment was significantly higher than that in the other two groups (P<0.05); no significant difference was observed in GPE at 3 and 6 months after treatment between groups B and C (P>0.05). Conclusion TFESI combined with PRF for the treatment of LDH could effectively and rapidly relieve lumbago and radicular pain and achieve long-term remission. Although the method is widely applicable, the precise selection of patients is imperative.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Ding
- Department of Pain Management, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Hongxi Li
- Department of Pain Management, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yongqiang Zhu
- Department of Pain Management, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Peng Yao
- Department of Pain Management, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Guangyi Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China,
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Tak HJ, Chang MC. Effect of Pulsed Radiofrequency Therapy on Chronic Refractory Atlanto-Occipital Joint Pain. World Neurosurg 2018; 119:e638-e642. [PMID: 30077747 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2018.07.227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Revised: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Despite several methods of conservative management, many patients with atlanto-occipital (AO) joint pain complain of persistent pain. In the current study, the authors investigated the clinical efficacy of intra-articular pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) therapy for the management of refractory chronic AO joint pain. METHODS Twenty patients with refractory AO joint pain were recruited, and each received intra-articular AO joint PRF stimulation. Pain reduction after PRF therapy was measured using a numerical rating scale (NRS) before and at 1 and 3 months after treatment. Successful pain relief was defined as ≥50% reduction in the NRS score compared with the pretreatment score. At 3 months after treatment, patient satisfaction levels were also examined. Patients reporting very good (score = 7) or good (score = 6) results were considered to be satisfied with the procedure. RESULTS The NRS scores changed significantly over time. At 1 and 3 months after PRF therapy, the NRS scores were significantly reduced compared with pretreatment scores. Sixteen of the 20 (80%) patients reported pain relief and were satisfied with treatment results 3 months after PRF. No adverse effects were reported. CONCLUSIONS Intra-articular PRF therapy is a beneficial treatment tool for managing refractory chronic AO joint pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyeong-Jun Tak
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Gimcheon Jeil Hospital, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Cheol Chang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University 317-1, Daemyungdong, Namku, Daegu, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cervical radicular pain is a challenging medical problem in terms of therapeutic management. Recently, pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) stimulation on the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) has been used to control several types of chronic pain. However, its effect on cervical radicular pain is still not well studied. To conduct a meta-analysis of available clinical studies on PRF treatment in patients with cervical radicular pain induced by cervical spine disease that was not responsive to other conservative treatments. METHODS A comprehensive database search was conducted on PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and SCOPUS. We included studies published up to August 31, 2017, that fulfilled our inclusion and exclusion criteria. The pain degrees measured using visual analog scale (VAS) at pretreatment and after PRF on the DRG were collected for the meta-analysis. The Cochrane Collaboration's Handbook and Newcastle-Ottawa scale were used for the methodological quality assessments of included studies. The meta-analysis was performed using the Comprehensive Meta-analysis Version 2. RESULTS A total of 67 patients from one RCT study, 2 prospective observational studies, and one retrospective study were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled data of the 4 included studies showed that overall VAS after the PRF treatment was significantly reduced (P ≤ .001). In the subgroup analysis according to follow-up evaluation time points, the pain was significantly reduced at 2 weeks, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after the procedure (2 weeks: P = .02; 1, 3, and 6 months: P < .001). CONCLUSION According to the results of the meta-analysis, the use of PRF on the DRG is effective for alleviating cervical radicular pain, which was unresponsive to oral medications, physical therapy, or epidural steroid injection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sang Gyu Kwak
- Department of Medical Statistics, College of Medicine, Catholic University of Daegu
| | - Dong Gyu Lee
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Cheol Chang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Huang X, Wang W, Liu X, Xi Y, Yu J, Yang X, Ye X. Bone mesenchymal stem cells attenuate radicular pain by inhibiting microglial activation in a rat noncompressive disk herniation model. Cell Tissue Res 2018; 374:99-110. [PMID: 29858667 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-018-2855-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Spinal disk herniation can induce radicular pain through chemical irritation caused by proinflammatory and immune responses. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) are a unique type of adult stem cell with the functions of suppressing inflammation and modulating immune responses. This study was undertaken to observe the effect of intrathecal BMSCs on the treatment of mechanical allodynia and the suppression of microglial activation in a rat noncompressive disk herniation model. The model was induced by the application of nucleus pulposus (NP) to the L5 dorsal root ganglion (DRG). The study found that the use of NP in the DRG can induce abnormal mechanical pain, increase the contents of the proinflammatory factors TNF-α and IL-1β, decrease the content of the anti-inflammatory cytokine TGF-β1 and activate microglia in the spinal dorsal horns (L5) (P < 0.05). BMSC administration could increase the mechanical withdrawal thresholds dramatically, decrease the contents of IL-1β and TNF-α, increase the content of TGF-β1 significantly (P < 0.05) and inhibit microglial activation in the bilateral spinal dorsal horn. Our results indicate that BMSC administration can reduce mechanical allodynia and downregulate the expression of proinflammatory cytokines by inhibiting microglial activation in the spinal dorsal horn in a rat noncompressive disk herniation model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Huang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200003, China
| | - Weiheng Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200003, China
| | - Xilin Liu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Chengdu General Hospital of Chengdu Military Command Region, Chengdu, 610083, China
| | - Yanhai Xi
- Department of Orthopaedics, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200003, China
| | - Jiangming Yu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200003, China
| | - Xiangqun Yang
- Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Xiaojian Ye
- Department of Orthopaedics, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200003, China.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Clinical Effectiveness of Intra-articular Pulsed Radiofrequency Compared to Intra-articular Corticosteroid Injection for Management of Atlanto-occipital Joint Pain: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Pilot Study. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2018; 43:741-746. [PMID: 28902105 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0000000000002414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN A prospective randomized controlled pilot study. OBJECTIVE We aimed to assess the effectiveness of pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) stimulation on the atlanto-occipital (AO) joint in patients with chronic joint pain. In addition, we compared the effects of AO intra-articular (IA) PRF and AO IA corticosteroid. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA IA injection of corticosteroids into the AO joint is widely used for the management of head and upper cervical pain, and its effectiveness has been shown in previous studies. However, little is known about the effect of PRF stimulation on the AO joint for controlling chronic head or upper cervical pain. METHODS Twenty-three consecutive patients with chronic upper cervical pain were enrolled according to the inclusion criteria and divided into one of two groups. Twelve patients received PRF stimulation with a PRF needle electrode in the IA space of the AO joint (PRF group) and 11 patients received AO IA corticosteroid injection (ICI group. Pain intensity was assessed using a numeric rating scale (NRS) before treatment and 1, 3, and 6 months afterward. Successful pain relief was defined as ≥50% reduction in NRS score 6 months post-treatment compared to pretreatment. RESULTS Mean NRS scores were significantly reduced compared to those pretreatment (P < 0.001) in both groups. Temporal changes in NRS score were not significantly different between groups (P = 0.227). Successful pain relief was achieved in 66.7% and 63.6% of patients in the PRF and ICI groups, respectively. CONCLUSION IA PRF stimulation significantly relieved AO joint pain and its effect persisted for at least 6 months after treatment. In addition, the degree of pain relief after IA PRF was not significantly different from that after ICI. We think that PRF stimulation of the AO joint could be a useful clinical treatment for patients with AO joint pain. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 2.
Collapse
|
31
|
Abstract
RATIONALE Despite medication, exercise, and medical intervention, many patients complain of persistent discogenic neck pain. To manage discogenic neck pain, we performed intradiscal pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) stimulation in a patient with chronic discogenic neck pain refractory to oral medication and epidural steroid injection. PATIENT CONCERNS A 26-year-old man presented with a numeric rating scale (NRS) score of 7 for chronic neck pain. His pain was worse when the neck was held in one position for a prolonged period. There was no pain in the upper extremities. DIAGNOSES Discography was positive at C4-5. Based on the pain characteristics, and the result of discography, we diagnosed him as having discogenic neck pain originating from C4-5. INTERVENTIONS Intradiscal PRF on the C4-5 intervertebral disc was performed under C-arm fluoroscopy. The PRF treatment was administered at 2 Hz and a 20-ms pulsed width for 20 minutes at 60 V with the constraint that the electrode tip temperature should not exceed 42°C. OUTCOMES At the 2-week, and 1-month follow-up visits, the patient's pain was completely relieved. At 2, and 3 months after intradiscal PRF, the pain was scored as NRS 2. No adverse effects of intradiscal PRF stimulation were observed. LESSONS Application of intradiscal PRF appears to be an effective and safe technique for treating chronic discogenic neck pain.
Collapse
|
32
|
Chang MC. Effect of Pulsed Radiofrequency Treatment on the Thoracic Medial Branch for Managing Chronic Thoracic Facet Joint Pain Refractory to Medial Branch Block with Local Anesthetics. World Neurosurg 2017; 111:e644-e648. [PMID: 29294395 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2017.12.141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Revised: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effect of pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) stimulation of the thoracic medial branch of the dorsal ramus in patients with chronic thoracic facet joint (TFJ) pain who were refractory to medial branch block (MBB). METHODS This was a prospective, observational study. The author retrospectively reviewed data from 72 patients who had received therapeutic MBB with 0.5 mL of 2% lidocaine mixed with 0.5 mL of 0.25% bupivacaine to treat TFJ-origin upper or midback pain. Of these patients, 20 were included to evaluate the effects of PRF on the thoracic medical branch to manage TFJ pain refractory to therapeutic MBB. PRF stimulation was administered at 5 Hz and a 5-millisecond pulsed width for 360 seconds at 45 V. The pain-reducing effect of the PRF procedure was evaluated via the numeric rating scale (NRS) at 1, 2, and 3 months after treatment. Successful pain relief was defined as ≥50% reduction in the NRS score compared with the score before treatment. RESULTS The NRS scores changed significantly over time (pretreatment, 6.0 ± 1.0; 1 month, 3.3 ± 2.2; 2 months, 3.9 ± 2.1; and 3 months, 4.0 ± 2.2). At 1, 2, and 3 months after the PRF procedure, the NRS scores were significantly reduced compared with the scores before the treatment. Eleven (55%) of 20 patients reported successful pain relief at 3 months after PRF. CONCLUSIONS The author suggests that PRF on the thoracic medial branch is an effective and safe interventional technique for the control of chronic TFJ pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min Cheol Chang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Taegu, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Lee DG, Cho YW, Cho KH, Chang MC. Management of refractory sciatic neuropathic pain using ultrasound-guided pulsed radiofrequency. J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil 2017; 30:1141-1145. [PMID: 28946529 DOI: 10.3233/bmr-169724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Nowadays, pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) is being used to control several types of musculoskeletal pain. Herein, we report a successful application of ultrasound (US)-guided PRF for a patient with refractory sciatic neuropathic pain. CASE REPORT We applied US-guided PRF to a 50-year-old man, suffering from refractory neuropathic pain on the left foot following sciatic neuropathy for a period of approximately 6 months. We performed PRF on the level of piriformis muscle because the lesion of the sciatic nerve was presented digitally from the level of piriformis muscle on the magnetic resonance images. Under US guidance, the catheter needle was placed close to the left sciatic nerve, and dysesthesia and tingling sensation were reported to be less than 0.2 V. The PRF treatment was administered at 5 Hz and 5 ms pulsed width for 360 seconds at 45 V. After PRF on the left sciatic nerve, pain intensity - based on a numeric rating scale - decreased from 8 to 2. The reduction of pain was sustained for at least 6 months after the PRF procedure. CONCLUSION We concluded that the PRF treatment is a very useful treatment technique for patients with refractory sciatic neuropathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dong Gyu Lee
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Yun Woo Cho
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Kil-Ho Cho
- Department of Radiology, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Min Cheol Chang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Daegu, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Abstract
RATIONALE Despite undergoing transforaminal epidural steroid injection (TFESI), many patients complain of persisting cervical radicular pain. For the management of chronic cervical radicular pain, clinicians are widely applying pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) stimulation to dorsal root ganglions (DRGs). To enhance the effect of PRF stimulation, we conducted bipolar PRF stimulation in 2 patients with chronic cervical radicular pain that was refractory to monopolar PRF and repeated TFESIs. PATIENT CONCERNS Patients 1 and 2 presented with a numeric rating scale (NRS) score of 7 and 6 for chronic cervical radicular pain, respectively, despite undergoing monopolar PRF and 2 TFESIs. DIAGNOSES On cervical magnetic resonance imaging, foraminal stenosis at the right C6-7 and right central to right foraminal disc protrusion on C6-7 were observed in patients 1 and 2, respectively. Two patients showed a positive response on diagnostic right C7 selective nerve root block with 0.5 mL of 1% lidocaine. INTERVENTIONS Bipolar PRF stimulation was performed under C-arm fluoroscopy. Two parallel RF cannulas (less than 1 cm apart) were used for DRG stimulation. The PRF treatment was administered at 5 Hz and a 5-ms pulsed width for 360 seconds at 45 V with the constraint that the electrode tip temperature did not exceed 42°C. OUTCOMES At the 2-week and 1-month follow-up, after undergoing bipolar PRF, the pain of patient 1 was completely relieved, and at 2, 3, and 6 months, the pain was scored as NRS 2. In patient 2, at the 2-week follow-up after undergoing bipolar PRF, pain severity was reduced from NRS 6 to 2. The effect of bipolar PRF on patient 2 lasted for at least 6 months. No adverse effects were observed in either patient. LESSONS Application of bipolar PRF to DRGs seems to be an effective and safe technique for treating refractory chronic cervical radicular pain.
Collapse
|
35
|
Chang MC, Cho YW, Ahn SH. Comparison between bipolar pulsed radiofrequency and monopolar pulsed radiofrequency in chronic lumbosacral radicular pain: A randomized controlled trial. Medicine (Baltimore) 2017; 96:e6236. [PMID: 28248888 PMCID: PMC5340461 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000006236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic lumbosacral radicular pain is a challenging medical problem with respect to therapeutic management. Many patients with lumbosacral radicular pain complain of persistent leg pain after transforaminal epidural steroid injection. Nowadays, pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) stimulation on the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) is widely used for controlling lumbosacral radicular pain. METHODS We evaluated the effect of bipolar PRF on the DRG for the management of lumbosacral radicular pain. In addition, we compared the effect of bipolar PRF to monopolar PRF. Fifty patients with chronic lumbosacral radicular pain were included in the study and randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups, the bipolar or monopolar PRF group (n = 25 per group). Pain intensity was evaluated using a numeric rating scale (NRS) at pretreatment, and 1, 2, and 3 months after treatment. RESULTS When compared to the pretreatment NRS scores, patients in both groups showed a significant decrease in NRS scores at 1, 2, and 3 months after treatment. Reductions in the NRS scores over time were significantly larger in the bipolar PRF group. Three months after treatment, 19 patients (76.0%) in the bipolar PRF group and 12 patients (48.0%) in the monopolar PRF group reported successful pain relief (pain relief of ≥50%). CONCLUSION The use of bipolar PRF on the DRG can be an effective and safe interventional technique for chronic refractory lumbosacral radiculopathy, particularly in patients whose pain are refractory to epidural steroid injection or monopolar PRF stimulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min Cheol Chang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University
| | - Yun Woo Cho
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University
| | - Sang Ho Ahn
- Dr Ahn's Spine & Pain Clinic, and Dr Ahn's Spine and Pain Institute, Taegu, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Facchini G, Spinnato P, Guglielmi G, Albisinni U, Bazzocchi A. A comprehensive review of pulsed radiofrequency in the treatment of pain associated with different spinal conditions. Br J Radiol 2017; 90:20150406. [PMID: 28186832 DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20150406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this review was to evaluate the efficacy of pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) treatment of pain associated with different spinal conditions. The mechanisms of action and biological effects are shortly discussed to provide the scientific basis for this radiofrequency modality. METHODS We systematically searched for clinical studies on spinal clinical conditions using PRF. We searched the MEDLINE (PubMed) database. We classified the information in one table focusing on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and other types of studies. Date of last electronic search was October 2016. RESULTS We found four RCTs that evaluated the efficacy of PRF on cervical radicular pain and five observational studies. Two trials and three observational studies were conducted in patients with facet pain. For disc-related pathology, we found one RCT with PRF applied intradiscally and three RCTs for dorsal root ganglia PRF modulation lumbosacral radicular pain. For sacroiliac joint pain, spondylolisthesis, malignancies and other minor spinal pathology, limited studies were conducted. CONCLUSION From the available evidence, the use of PRF to the dorsal root ganglion in cervical radicular pain is compelling. With regard to its lumbosacral counterpart, the use of PRF cannot be similarly advocated in view of the absence of standardization of PRF parameters, enrolment criteria and different methods in reporting results; but, the evidence is interesting. The use of PRF in lumbar facet pain was found to be less effective than conventional RF techniques. For the other different spinal conditions, we need further studies to assess the effectiveness of PRF. Advances in knowledge: The use of PRF in lumbar facet pain was found to be less effective than conventional RF techniques. For the other different spinal conditions, we need further studies to assess the effectiveness of PRF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giancarlo Facchini
- 1 Department of Radiology, Scientific Institute Rizzoli Orthopaedic Institute, Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Spinnato
- 1 Department of Radiology, Scientific Institute Rizzoli Orthopaedic Institute, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Guglielmi
- 2 Department of Radiology, Scientific Institute Hospital "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza", San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Ugo Albisinni
- 1 Department of Radiology, Scientific Institute Rizzoli Orthopaedic Institute, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alberto Bazzocchi
- 1 Department of Radiology, Scientific Institute Rizzoli Orthopaedic Institute, Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Huang Y, Li Y, Zhong X, Hu Y, Liu P, Zhao Y, Deng Z, Liu X, Liu S, Zhong Y. Src-family kinases activation in spinal microglia contributes to central sensitization and chronic pain after lumbar disc herniation. Mol Pain 2017; 13:1744806917733637. [PMID: 28952414 PMCID: PMC5624351 DOI: 10.1177/1744806917733637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2017] [Revised: 08/06/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lumbar disc herniation is a major cause of radicular pain, but the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. Spinal activation of src-family kinases are involved in the development of chronic pain from nerve injury, inflammation, and cancer. In the present study, the role of src-family kinases activation in lumbar disc herniation-induced radicular pain was investigated. Results Lumbar disc herniation was induced by implantation of autologous nucleus pulposus, harvest from tail, in lumbar 4/5 spinal nerve roots of rat. Behavior test and electrophysiologic data showed that nucleus pulposus implantation induced persistent mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia and increased efficiency of synaptic transmission in spinal dorsal horn which underlies central sensitization of pain sensation. Western blotting and immunohistochemistry staining revealed that the expression of phosphorylated src-family kinases was upregulated mainly in spinal microglia of rats with nucleus pulposus. Intrathecal delivery of src-family kinases inhibitor PP2 alleviated pain behaviors, decreased efficiency of spinal synaptic transmission, and reduced phosphorylated src-family kinases expression. Furthermore, we found that the expression of ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1 (marker of microglia), tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin 1 -β in spinal dorsal horn was increased in rats with nucleus pulposus. Therapeutic effect of PP2 may be related to its capacity in reducing the expression of these factors. Conclusions These findings suggested that central sensitization was involved in radicular pain from lumbar disc herniation; src-family kinases-mediated inflammatory response may be responsible for central sensitization and chronic pain after lumbar disc herniation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yangliang Huang
- Department of Spine Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yongyong Li
- Department of Physiology and Pain Research Center, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiongxiong Zhong
- Department of Physiology and Pain Research Center, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuming Hu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Pan Liu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuanshu Zhao
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhen Deng
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xianguo Liu
- Department of Physiology and Pain Research Center, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shaoyu Liu
- Department of Spine Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Zhong
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Zhao W, Chen JZ, Hu JH, Huang JQ, Jiang YN, Luo G, Yi GF, Peng ZH, Wang H, Shen J, Gao BL. In vivo effects of radiofrequency ablation on long bones and the repair process in swine models. Jpn J Radiol 2016; 35:31-39. [PMID: 27822778 DOI: 10.1007/s11604-016-0596-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate in vivo effect of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) on swine long bones and the repair process. MATERIALS AND METHODS RFA was performed in six swine at the end and middle part of the tibia or femur. After RFA, radiological examinations were performed, and the swine were killed immediately and at different time points post-RFA for histopathological examination. RESULTS All swine had successful RFA. The RFA-induced elliptical necrotic area ranged from 3.81-5.24 cm2 (mean 4.08 ± 0.73 cm2) at the bone end but 5.60-8.98 cm2 (mean 7.58 ± 1.41) at the middle part immediately after RFA until 10 days, with the necrosis area significantly smaller (P = 0.000) at the end than at the middle. RFA only damaged the cortical bone slightly (0.01 cm thick) with no damage to the soft tissues outside the compact bone at both the end and middle. Surrounding the elliptic pale zone of coagulative necrosis was a narrow brown band of hemorrhage and inflammatory exudate. From day 10 until week 12, tissue proliferation and repair became increasingly apparent, with proliferated granulation, fibrous tissue, and fresh and mature bone trabecula. CONCLUSION RFA can quickly and effectively destroy the cancellous bone tissue without affecting the cortical bone and activate bone remodeling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhao
- Department of Medical Imaging, The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, Yunnan, 650032, People's Republic of China
| | - Jin-Zhou Chen
- Department of Medical Imaging, The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, Yunnan, 650032, People's Republic of China
| | - Ji-Hong Hu
- Department of Medical Imaging, The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, Yunnan, 650032, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian-Qiang Huang
- Department of Medical Imaging, The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, Yunnan, 650032, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong-Neng Jiang
- Department of Medical Imaging, The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, Yunnan, 650032, People's Republic of China
| | - Gang Luo
- Department of Medical Imaging, The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, Yunnan, 650032, People's Republic of China
| | - Gen-Fa Yi
- Department of Medical Imaging, The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, Yunnan, 650032, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhao-Hong Peng
- Department of Medical Imaging, The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, Yunnan, 650032, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Medical Imaging, The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, Yunnan, 650032, People's Republic of China
| | - Jin Shen
- Department of Medical Imaging, The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, Yunnan, 650032, People's Republic of China
| | - Bu-Lang Gao
- Department of Medical Imaging, The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, Yunnan, 650032, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Lee DG, Ahn SH, Lee J. Comparative Effectivenesses of Pulsed Radiofrequency and Transforaminal Steroid Injection for Radicular Pain due to Disc Herniation: a Prospective Randomized Trial. J Korean Med Sci 2016; 31:1324-30. [PMID: 27478346 PMCID: PMC4951565 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2016.31.8.1324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2016] [Accepted: 06/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforaminal Epidural steroid injections (TFESI) have been widely adopted to alleviate and control radicular pain in accord with current guidelines. However, sometimes repeated steroid injections have adverse effects, and thus, this prospective randomized trial was undertaken to compare the effectivenesses of pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) administered to a targeted dorsal root ganglion (DRG) and TFESI for the treatment of radicular pain due to disc herniation. Subjects were recruited when first proved unsuccessful (defined as a score of > 4 on a visual analogue scale (VAS; 0-10 mm) and of > 30% according to the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) or the Neck Disability Index (NDI)). Forty-four patients that met the inclusion criteria were enrolled. The 38 subjects were randomly assigned to receive either PRF (PRF group; n = 19) or additional TFESI (TFESI group; n = 19) and were then followed for 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks. To evaluate pain intensity were assessed by VAS. ODI and NDI were applied to evaluate functional disability. Mean VAS scores for cervical and lumbar radicular pain were significantly lower 12 weeks after treatment in both study groups. NDI and ODI scores also declined after treatment. However, no statistically significant difference was observed between the PRF and TFESI groups in terms of VAS, ODI, or NDI scores at any time during follow-up. PRF administered to a DRG might be as effective as TFESI in terms of attenuating radicular pain caused by disc herniation, and its use would avoid the adverse effects of steroid.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dong Gyu Lee
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Dongsan Medical Center, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Sang-Ho Ahn
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Yeungnam University School of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Jungwon Lee
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Yeungnam University School of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Cho HK, Ahn SH, Kim SY, Choi MJ, Hwang SJ, Cho YW. Changes in the Expressions of Iba1 and Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide in Adjacent Lumbar Spinal Segments after Lumbar Disc Herniation in a Rat Model. J Korean Med Sci 2015; 30:1902-10. [PMID: 26713069 PMCID: PMC4689838 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2015.30.12.1902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Accepted: 10/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Lumbar disc herniation is commonly encountered in clinical practice and can induce sciatica due to mechanical and/or chemical irritation and the release of proinflammatory cytokines. However, symptoms are not confined to the affected spinal cord segment. The purpose of this study was to determine whether multisegmental molecular changes exist between adjacent lumbar spinal segments using a rat model of lumbar disc herniation. Twenty-nine male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to either a sham-operated group (n=10) or a nucleus pulposus (NP)-exposed group (n=19). Rats in the NP-exposed group were further subdivided into a significant pain subgroup (n=12) and a no significant pain subgroup (n=7) using mechanical pain thresholds determined von Frey filaments. Immunohistochemical stainings of microglia (ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1; Iba1), astrocytes (glial fibrillary acidic protein; GFAP), calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), and transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) was performed in spinal dorsal horns and dorsal root ganglions (DRGs) at 10 days after surgery. It was found immunoreactivity for Iba1-positive microglia was higher in the L5 (P=0.004) dorsal horn and in the ipsilateral L4 (P=0.009), L6 (P=0.002), and S1 (P=0.002) dorsal horns in the NP-exposed group than in the sham-operated group. The expression of CGRP was also significantly higher in ipsilateral L3, L4, L6, and S1 segments and in L5 DRGs at 10 days after surgery in the NP-exposed group than in the sham-operated group (P<0.001). Our results indicate that lumbar disc herniation upregulates microglial activity and CGRP expression in many adjacent and ipsilateral lumbar spinal segments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hee Kyung Cho
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, College of Medicine, Daegu Catholic University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Sang Ho Ahn
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Daegu, Korea
- Medical Devices Clinical Trial Center, Yeungnam University, Daegu, Korea
| | - So-Yeon Kim
- Medical Devices Clinical Trial Center, Yeungnam University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Mi-Jung Choi
- Medical Devices Clinical Trial Center, Yeungnam University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Se Jin Hwang
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yun Woo Cho
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Daegu, Korea
| |
Collapse
|