A new study has found that a treatment known as pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) is a useful alternative in treating chronic back pain.

Researchers at the Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro (Madrid, Spain) conducted a retrospective analysis of 54 consecutive patients who underwent 75 PRF procedures applied to the lumbar dorsal root ganglion (DRG). The patients were divided into three groups according to the etiology of the lesion: herniated disc, spinal stenosis, and failed back surgery syndrome. The analgesic efficacy of the technique was assessed using a 10-point Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) at baseline, and along with the Global Perceived Effect (GPE), at 30, 60, 90, and 180 days. Since PRF does not involve drugs, it may be repeated multiple times.

The researchers found that PRF yielded significant improvements for herniated disc patients and notable improvements for those with spinal stenosis, but not in those with failed back surgery syndrome. The GPE scores confirmed these finding. No complications were noted. This study was published in the March 2007 issue of Pain Practice.

Radiofrequency (RF) thermolesioning is a widespread treatment for chronic back pain, but because of its neurodestructive nature, it is often considered an unsuitable treatment. Additionally, preexisting conditions that accompany chronic back pain, such as neurological lesions or neuropathic pain contribute in making conventional RF a controversial treatment.

“The use of PRF could reduce or potentially even eliminate these risks, providing safe, effective pain relief for patients with a variety of lower back pain conditions” said lead author David Abej n M.D.

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