The effect of radiofrequency ablation on pain score and non-steroidal painkiller use in osteoid osteoma patients

BMC Med Imaging. 2023 Oct 18;23(1):160. doi: 10.1186/s12880-023-01113-3.

Abstract

Aim: CT-guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is among the thermal ablative procedures and provides great benefits with a minimally invasive procedure. In this prospective study, we aimed to reveal the significance of a multidisciplinary method in reducing the recurrence and complications in osteoid osteoma patients with CT-guided RFA performed by a team of experts in the field.

Materials and methods: A total of consecutive 40 patients with osteoid osteoma were prospectively evaluated and treated with CT-guided RFA. Before and the post ablation the visual analog scale (VAS) and use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) were compared.

Results: Post-ablation VAS of the patients at the 1st week and 3rd month after the procedure decreased significantly (p < 0.01) compared to the pre-ablation. The frequency of NSAID use after the ablation decreased significantly (p < 0.01) compared to the pre-ablation time. The pre-procedure NSAID use of our patients included in the study was average 6.93 per week, the NSAID use in the 3rd month post-procedure controls was average 0.53 per week. Recurrence was detected in 4 of our patients, 36 patients had complete recovery.

Conclusion: Radiofrequency ablation is an effective treatment method in the management of osteoid osteomas. Radiofrequency ablation has low recurrence rates and provides rapid regression in patients' pain after treatment.

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / therapeutic use
  • Bone Neoplasms* / diagnostic imaging
  • Bone Neoplasms* / surgery
  • Catheter Ablation* / methods
  • Humans
  • Osteoma, Osteoid* / diagnostic imaging
  • Osteoma, Osteoid* / surgery
  • Pain / surgery
  • Prospective Studies
  • Radiofrequency Ablation*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal