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A Novel Neuromodulation Method for Childhood Migraine: Comparing Noninvasive Pulsed Radiofrequency Therapy With
Canan Üstün1, Gevher Rabia Genç Perdecioğlu2, Ömer Taylan Akkaya2
1Department of Pediatric Neurology, Ankara Etlik City Hospital, Ankara, Türkiye.
Background:
This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of noninvasive pulsed radiofrequency (NiPRF) therapy for childhood migraine and compared its outcomes with calcium channel blockers (CCBs).
Methods:
A randomized controlled trial included 60 pediatric migraine patients (7-18 years). Patients were randomized into two groups: the CCB group (n = 30), receiving 5 mg flunarizine daily for 3 months, and the NiPRF group (n = 30), undergoing three weekly sessions of transcutaneous pulsed radiofrequency to the greater occipital nerve. Headache severity and frequency were recorded using a headache diary, and migraine-related disability was assessed with the Pediatric Migraine Disability Assessment score at baseline, one month, and 3 months. Two patients in the CCB group were excluded due to elevated transaminase levels and one in the NiPRF group for incomplete sessions, leaving 57 patients for analysis.
Results:
Both treatments significantly reduced headache frequency and headache severity from baseline at 1 and 3 months. At one month, there was no significant difference between groups. However, at 3 months, the CCB group showed greater headache frequency reduction. Pediatric Migraine Disability Assessment scores improved in both groups, with a greater reduction in the CCB group at 3 months. Two CCB patients experienced transient liver enzyme elevation, while no significant side effects were observed in the NiPRF group.
Conclusions:
NiPRF is a safe and effective treatment for childhood migraine, with comparable short-term efficacy to CCBs. Its noninvasive nature and minimal side effects make it a promising alternative. Further studies should assess long-term efficacy and optimize protocols.
