Caudal epidural of pulsed radiofrequency in post herpetic neuralgia (PHN); Report of three cases

Abstract

Introduction: Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a frequently occurring neuropathic pain, its pathophysiology is not fully understood. There are only few evidence based therapeutic options; sympathetic nerve block can be considered for patients with PHN refractory to conservative treatment, but long-term effects are poor. Application of pulsed radiofrequency was effective to treat a variety of pain syndromes without neurological complications or other sequelae. Case Presentation: We observed a remarkable long-lasting pain relief in patients with post herpetic neuralgia (PHN) treated with caudal epidural PRF. We described the technique of caudal epidural PRF and three case reports. Conclusions: The mode of action of PRF is far from being completely elucidated. The high frequency current induces an electric field that in turn seems to influence the immunity, the inflammation and other pain conducting mechanisms. Our findings suggest an effect distal from the application of the current. It reaches targets that are difficultly attainable by any other means of current application. The observations of pain relief in the difcult to treat patients with PHN justifes further investigation. © 2014, Iranian Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine (ISRAPM).