Work

Breaking the Temperature Barrier: Lasting Pain Relief and Motor Recovery After 80°C Suprascapular Nerve Ablation

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Chronic shoulder pain can severely impact function and quality of life. The suprascapular nerve, which innervates most of the shoulder joint, is a key target in refractory cases. This report describes the case of an 87-year-old female with bilateral osteoarthritis who failed conservative treatments. A diagnostic suprascapular nerve block provided complete relief. She then underwent fluoroscopically guided conventional radiofrequency ablation (RFA) at 80°C for 90 seconds, resulting in immediate and sustained pain relief and improved mobility. The pain relief lasted for over two years. This report demonstrates the long-term effectiveness and safety of conventional RFA in managing chronic suprascapular nerve-related shoulder pain.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.89729

Authors: Jad Kabbara, Cham Alsalak, Abdallah Kabbara

Institutions: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Damascus University, University Hospitals of Cleveland, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center

Language: English

Topic: Pain Management and Treatment

Subfield: Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4413233227