Percutaneous imaging-guided techniques for the treatment of benign neuropathic pain

Abstract

To date, conservative management including physical and/or systemic pharmacologic therapy is considered as the first line approach for the management of neuropathic pain syndromes. In the era of an opioid overdose crisis with an increased concern upon the risks and harms arising from the misuse of medicines for pain management, percutaneous minimally invasive techniques such as nerve infiltrations as well as neurolysis or neuromodulation techniques can be proposed to control pain and improve life quality. Computed tomography can serve as an ideal guiding technique due to its specific characteristics including precise anatomic delineation, high spatial resolution and good tissue contrast. The purpose of this review is to make the reader familiar with the most common indications for minimally invasive imaging-guided techniques in patients with neuralgia and provide current evidence regarding technical considerations.

Keywords: Gasserian ganglion; Interventional; Nerve block; Neuralgia; Pain management; Radiology, interventional.