The Use of Pulsed Radiofrequency Treatment for Chronic Benign Pancreatitis Pain

Abstract

Current analgesic strategies for the management of pain caused by chronic benign pancreatitis are poorly defined and frequently unsuccessful. Strategies have included pharmacotherapy, surgery, and interventional pain techniques such as celiac plexus blockade. Persistent quality analgesia with acceptable side effect profiles is difficult to achieve. Pulsed radiofrequency treatment is a minimally neurodestructive technique that may alter nerve conduction and offer a reduction in pain perception. We describe our experience with this technique in two patients with pain secondary to chronic benign pancreatitis.