Clinical Application of Combined Pulsed Radiofrequency and Low-Temperature Thermal Radiofrequency for Postoperative Radicular Pain: A Case Report

Postoperative radicular pain may persist after lumbar spine surgery despite adequate decompression and the absence of a definite compressive lesion on imaging. Management of such cases remains challenging. This study aimed to report the clinical outcomes of combined pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) and low-temperature thermal radiofrequency. We retrospectively reviewed two patients with postoperative radicular pain without evidence of a high-grade compressive lesion. Both patients showed temporary relief after selective nerve root block. PRF (42°C, 120 seconds), followed by low-temperature thermal radiofrequency (55°C, 60 seconds), was applied under fluoroscopic guidance. Both patients demonstrated significant pain reduction without neurological complications, and symptom improvement was maintained for at least 12 months. The combination of PRF and low-temperature thermal radiofrequency may represent a feasible minimally invasive treatment option. Further studies are required to clarify its effectiveness and indications.