Radiofrequency Neurotomy for Remnant Pain after Vertebroplasty as the Treatment of Severe Compression Fracture.
- Author:
Saeng Youp KIM
1
;
Seok Won KIM
Author Information
1. Department of Neurosurgery, College of Medicine, Chosun University, Gwangju, Korea. chosunns@hanmail.net
- Publication Type:Original Article
- Keywords:
Severe compression fracture;
Vertebroplasty;
Remnant pain;
Radiofrequency neurotomy
- MeSH:
Follow-Up Studies;
Fractures, Compression*;
Humans;
Spine;
Vertebroplasty*
- From:Journal of Korean Neurosurgical Society
2006;40(2):95-98
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility, safety and effectiveness of radiofrequency neurotomy(RFN) for remnant pain after vertebroplasty for the treatment of severe compression fracture. METHODS: 25 patients with remnant pain after vertebroplasty for one level severe compression fracture were treated by RFN. The severe compression fractures were defined to the vertebrae which less than 50% of their original heights have collapsed. Pain relief was evaluated at 2 weeks, 6 weeks and 3 months after the procedure using a visual analog scale(VAS). RESULTS: Successful outcome was determined if pain reduction exceeded 50% on the VAS at 6 weeks. Six of the 25 patients did not respond favorably to RFN (pain reduction less than 50%), and nineteen patients showed successful responses. Mean VAS score was decreased from 5.48 to 2.96 at 6 weeks. CONCLUSION: The radiofrequency neurotomy may be both feasible and useful treatment for the remnant pain after vertebroplasty. However long-term follow up is needed to confirm the effectiveness.
