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THE USE OF RADIOFREQUENCY NEUROABLATION IN THE TREATMENT OF OMALGIA IN PATIENTS WITH SHOULDER JOINT ARTHROSIS
I Fishchenko1, L Kravchuk2, V Kormiltsev2
11State Institution «Institute of Traumatology and Orthopedics National Academy of Medical Science of Ukraine», Kiev, Ukraine.
Georgian Medical News
|April 12, 2023
Summary
Radiofrequency neuroablation of the suprascapular nerve offers significant pain relief for shoulder joint disorders, with effects lasting up to six months. While many patients experience reduced pain, nearly 65% still require additional pain relief after a year.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Pain Management
- Neuromodulation
Background:
- Omalgia, or shoulder pain, is often associated with degenerative and dystrophic disorders of the shoulder joint.
- Current treatments may not provide sufficient long-term relief for all patients.
- Radiofrequency denervation (neuroablation) presents a potential therapeutic option.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of radiofrequency denervation (RFN) of the suprascapular nerve in treating omalgia.
- To assess pain reduction and the need for analgesics in patients with shoulder joint arthrosis.
- To determine the duration of therapeutic effects following the procedure.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 31 patients with shoulder joint disorders who underwent radiofrequency neuroablation of the suprascapular nerve.
- Pain levels were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) before and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months post-procedure.
- Radiographic assessment determined disease staging using the Kellgren-Lawrence classification.
Main Results:
- A significant decrease in VAS pain scores was observed one month post-RFN (3.87±1.06 cm), with a stable reduction maintained for three months.
- Pain relief began to gradually deteriorate after six months (5.52±1.24 cm) and persisted at 12 months (5.2±1.58 cm).
- After 12 months, 29.03% of patients discontinued NSAID use, while 64.52% continued to use them for pain relief.
Conclusions:
- Suprascapular nerve RFN provides a stable positive therapeutic effect for up to six months in patients with omalgia.
- The procedure can reduce pain syndrome and allow nearly 30-40% of patients with shoulder arthrosis to discontinue painkillers.
- While effective, the pain relief duration varies, with effects lasting 6 to 12 months, necessitating further management strategies for sustained relief.
