Results of sphenopalatine ganglion pulsed radio-frequency treatment in patients suffering from episodic cluster headache

Abstract

Background & Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the short-to medium-term effects of pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) of the sphenopalatine ganglion on episodic cluster headache. Methods: This is a retrospective observational study, 26 patients who underwent PRF of the sphenopalatine ganglion were retrospectively evaluated. The Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score, number of headache attacks per week, autonomic symptoms and medication use were recorded at 1, 3 and 6 months after the procedure. Results: The mean VAS scores were significantly lower at the 1-, 3-, and 6-month evaluations compared with pre-procedure values (P < 0.001). At the 6th month after the procedure, the proportion of subjects who completely stopped using medications was 26.9%, and the proportion with a decrease in autonomic symptoms was 61.5%. No complications were encountered as a result of the procedure. Conclusion: The application of PRF to the sphenopalatine ganglion is an effective and safe treatment option for episodic cluster headache in the short to medium term. © 2023, ASEAN Neurological Association. All rights reserved.