Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF): up-to-date

Abstract

In recent years, pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) has evolved dramatically and has been applied as a safe and minimally invasive treatment of various types of pain. By intermittently energizing the high-frequency current, PRF is a means to obtain pain relief by raising the electric field to affect the nerves. It is set to keep the temperature below 42°C, to avoid possible spread of the surrounding temperature. PRF is less likely to cause muscle weakness, sensory disturbance, and motor paralysis, and it can be directed to the affected area of neuropathic pain and dorsal root ganglia. The objective of this review is to explain the physical as well as the biologic effects of PRF, and to show evidence of the efficacy of therapy of PRF treatment in chronic pain management in randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and well-designed observational studies.