A Thermal Injury Model by Monopolar Radiofrequency on Sciatic Nerve in Mice

Peripheral nerve injury often results in neuropathic pain and triggers nerve repair processes. Whilst controllable physical injury models are now well-established, existing thermal injury models remain exploratory and exhibit poor controllability. In clinical practice, radiofrequency ablation (RFA) systems are frequently employed to induce thermal injury to tissues and nerves. RFA is a therapeutic modality that has been demonstrated to effectively block pain transmission by inducing thermal damage to nerves. The extent of the ablation can be modified by adjusting specific parameters, as well as the degree of numbness and motor dysfunction in the affected nerve distribution area. This study used a monopolar radiofrequency system to create a stable, controllable nerve injury model in the sciatic nerve of mice by applying 75°C for 30 s. A significant increase in mechanical withdrawal threshold (MWT) was observed from days 7-14 post-surgery, with recovery occurring by day 28. This research addresses the current gap in RFA nerve injury models, replicates the nerve damage observed clinically after RFA procedures, and provides a methodological framework for subsequent studies on RFA-induced nerve injury.