A Study on the Effectiveness of Pulsed Radiofrequency Treatment Applied to the Femoral and Obturator Nerve Articular Branches Under Ultrasound Guidance in Chronic Hip Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis of the hip joint is a common cause of pain and disability. Patients who do not respond to conservative treatments such as painkillers, physical therapy, and exercise often cannot undergo joint replacement due to comorbid conditions, while some patients prefer to postpone surgery as long as possible. Pulsed radiofrequency treatment applied to the articular branches of the femoral and obturator nerves, which innervate the joint, is a new technique for reducing hip joint pain. Previous studies have reported positive results after applying thermal neurolytic radiofrequency to the target nerves; however, this approach carries the risk of neuritis and neuroma formation. In our study, we aimed to investigate the effectiveness of pRF treatment applied to the articular branches of the femoral and obturator nerves under ultrasound guidance on pain and functionality in patients with chronic hip pain associated with osteoarthritis. The fact that the procedure is performed under ultrasound guidance, does not involve radiation exposure, and is an accessible and easy-to-perform technique makes it preferable for both patients and physicians.