Peripheral nerve blocks are most commonly used when pain medication escalation is limited by side-effects. Some patients, however, will benefit from one component of their pain being relieved by a peripheral nerve block as part of a comprehensive, multi-pronged plan.
When pain arises from nerve injury or from cancer, these nerves can play a vital role in pain relief. When nerve blocks are given in combination with other therapy, including pain medications, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, their use may allow significant relief while avoiding side-effects from escalation of pain medications.
If nerve blocks do not provide sustained relief, radiofrequency denervation of the nerves can be considered. For peripheral nerves that provide muscular function, radiofrequency denervation with high temperature cauterization is not an option because of potential loss of function. In this case, a different means of applying the energy, a “pulsed” energy, will be used to “stun” the nerve. Pain signals are minimized while the nerve still retains its normal function.
Peripheral nerve radiofrequency denervation can be performed with either the assistance of landmarks that can be easily felt by touch (palpation), or under imaging guidance (a live x-ray or ultrasound machine) to increase the accuracy of this procedure.
As with any other procedure, there are potential risks (although very low) of infection, bleeding, allergic reaction, and prolonged increases in pain. The doctor will use x-ray guidance and sterile techniques throughout the procedure to significantly reduce the risks as well as nerve damage.
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