Which Is More Effective in the Treatment of Postherpetic Neuralgia: Erector Spinae Plane Block or Transcutaneous Radiofrequency?

What this Trial Is About

This observational study compares two treatments for postherpetic neuralgia, a difficult type of nerve pain that affects quality of life. Researchers aim to evaluate the pain relief and neuropathic pain features in patients who have received either ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane (ESP) block or transcutaneous radiofrequency (RF) treatment. The study uses pain scores from the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and the Self-Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs (S-LANSS) to measure outcomes. Patients included in this study have already undergone one of the two treatments as part of their routine care at the Algology Clinic. The ESP block involves injecting a combination of dexamethasone, bupivacaine, and saline near the affected nerves using ultrasound guidance. The RF treatment uses adhesive electrodes to deliver pulsed electrical stimulation to the painful area for two weekly sessions. No changes were made to patients' treatment plans for this research. Researchers will review patients' pain scores before treatment, immediately after, and one month later to compare the two groups. The study looks at how well each treatment reduces pain and neuropathic symptoms at these time points. Participants' medical records and pain assessments are used for this retrospective evaluation. The study runs from June 2025 to October 2026 and includes adults aged 18 to 80 years with postherpetic neuralgia.

Erector Spinae Plane Block Versus Transcutaneous Radiofrequency in Postherpetic Neuralgia