Percutaneous Selective Neuromodulation via Monopolar Radiofrequency for Glabellar Lines: A Case Study

Injectable botulinum toxin is a safe, effective, and popular therapy that blocks neural impulses to achieve a desired effect. Using monopolar RF, percutaneous selective neuromodulation can achieve a similar but more persistent effect.

Bilateral treatment was performed on a woman (48 years of age) to ablate the angular nerves of the face, inhibiting muscular function and reduce the appearance of glabellar lines. The cannula was inserted at the mid-pupillary line and advanced toward the lateral border of the nose. After isolating the nerve via low-level stimulation, anesthetic was given through a port in the cannula and energy was applied; tissue temperature of 85 °C was maintained for 70 seconds.

Full ablative lesioning of the angular nerve of the patient was achieved and function was therapeutically inhibited with minimal pain. Results have persisted for more than two years.