Intercostal Nerves Pulsed Radiofrequency for Intractable Neuralgia Treatment in Athletes with Sport Trauma of the Chest: A Case‑Series Study

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Anesthesiology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

2 Department of Orthopedics Surgery and Sports Medicine, Akhtar Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

10.4103/atr.atr_26_17

Abstract

Background: Athletes with trauma to the chest could be injured and suffer from an acute disturbing chest wall pain due to intercostal
neuralgia. Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) is an emerging safe therapy in many neurologic pain syndromes. Objectives: This study aimed
to determine the effect of PRF on intercostal neuralgic pain in athletes complaining of severe chest pain and limited range of motion.
Materials and Methods: This case‑series study was conducted on athlete patients who suffered from severe chest pain that has limited their
function. Eighteen athletes who were absent from physical training and sports activity due to intercostal neuralgia in their current season
were admitted to our pain clinic. Intercostal nerve PRF was used to treat patients. Pain scale and return to sports activity were measured
after PRF. Results: The mean time of absence from sports activity was 1.3 ± 0.6 weeks. The mean score of pain severity (numeric rating
scale [NRS]) was 8.46 ± 1.85. In this study, 16 of 18 (88%) patients had effective pain relief (NRS <3) after PRF therapy. Besides, the NRS
scores reduced by at least 90% in 16 of 18 (88%) patients as compared to the baseline. The mean NRS score was followed‑up for 4 weeks.
The scores significantly decreased at 1 (P = 0.001), 2 (P = 0.0015), and 4 (P = 0.0002) weeks following PRF compared to pre‑PRF time.
Conclusions: Pulsed radiofrequency is a suitable therapy for athletes with intercostal nerve entrapment pain, which provides adequate and
quick pain relief, thus enabling them to resume their sport activities.

Keywords

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History

  • Receive Date: 15 June 2017
  • Accept Date: 15 July 2017

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