Comparison of Greater Occipital Nerve Block and Pulse Radiofrequency in Patients With Chronic Migraine

Patients between the ages of 18-60 years, who were resistant to medical treatment and diagnosed with chronic migraine according to ICHD-3 beta criteria (migraine pain for more than 15 days in the last 3 months) who applied to the Neurology and Algology outpatient clinic were included in the study.

All procedures were performed with the patient in the prone position, using anatomical landmarks in the target areas. For Gon Blockade, the target point for the greater occipital nerve was identified along a line connecting the external occipital protuberance to the mastoid process (usually 1.5-3 cm lateral to the midline) and one-third of the distance medial to the artery at the level of the superior nuchal process. After local anesthesia with skin-subcutaneous 1% lidocaine, bone contact was obtained using a 25-gauge needle. For Pulse Radiofrequency, the target point for the greater occipital nerve was determined as one third of the distance medial to the artery along a line connecting the external occipital protuberance to the mastoid process (usually 1.5-3 cm lateral to the midline) and at the level of the superior nuchal process. After local anesthesia with skin-subcutaneous 1% lidocaine, a 5 cm long 20 gauge radiofrequency needle with a 5 mm active tip was inserted close to the targeted nerve. Sensory and motor electrical stimulation was performed to elicit a compatible paresthesia response in the occipital distribution. Pulsed radiofrequency was applied at 42 degrees C for 240 seconds. Patients were observed after the procedure. Patients were observed before and after the procedure.