Radiofrequency ablation of the supra-orbital nerve in the treatment algorithm of hemicrania continua.

Hemicrania continua (HC) is an uncommon primary headache disorder in which the diagnosis centers on unilaterality and its absolute responsiveness to indomethacin. We describe 3 patients with a long standing history of headache diagnosed as hemicrania continua. There was profound response to indomethacin which was limited by side effects. In one patient the therapy with indomethacin was limited secondary to co-morbidities. Initial diagnostic blockade provided significant relief of symptoms based on which radio-frequency ablation of the supraorbital nerve was performed with substantial improvement in symptoms. Traditionally, hemicrania continua has been managed exclusively with oral analgesics and is defined by its singular response to indomethacin. Radio-frequency ablation (RFA) has been reported in the literature for multiple indications. This case series is unique in that it describes 3 patients diagnosed with hemicrania continua with pain referred in the supraorbital nerve distribution, who underwent radiofrequency ablation of the supraorbital nerve with resultant resolution of headaches. Traditionally, hemicrania continua has been managed exclusively with oral analgesics and is defined by its singular response to indomethacin. This report is unique in that it describes three patients diagnosed with hemicrania continua with pain referred in the supraorbital nerve distribution who underwent radiofrequency ablation of the supraorbital nerve with resultant resolution of headaches. After the RFA medical management was minimal to none in both patients. Though the utility and cost efficacy of RFA of peripheral nerves needs to be confirmed in well-designed trials we present these cases as an example of how this minimally invasive technique can safely provide analgesia in a difficult to treat cephalgia. Moreover if precise anatomical localization of the headache is possible then diagnostic blockade of the appropriate peripheral nerve may be performed followed by radiofrequency ablation to provide potentially more sustained analgesia in patients where medical management is ineffective or poorly tolerated.