Combining Stellate Ganglion and T2 and T3 Radiofrequency Ablation on Post-mastectomy Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

Visualization of C6-C7 level will be targeted under fluoroscopic posterior-anterior (PA) guidance. Skin will be infiltrated with 1% lidocaine using a 25-gauge needle. Next, the RF needle will be inserted under a trajectory approach toward the target. Then, with ultrasound guidance, using a superficial linear ultrasound probe to guide further needle penetration so that the needle-tip will lie anterior to the longus colli muscle, the exclusion of vascular structures will be confirmed by duplex(8). Then, 5 to 1 mL of omnipaque dye (iohexol) will be injected. Subsequently, a 100 mm length Baily RF electrode will be inserted and connected to the generator. The RF needle will be positioned alongside the stellate ganglion in the thermal RF technique. With repeated sensory and motor stimulation before RF lesioning

Radiofrequency sympathectomy will be performed with the patient in the prone position. Under fluoroscopic guidance, the T2, T3 vertebral bodies will be identified in an anteroposterior view. For radiofrequency sympathectomy, 10 cm curved, sharp radiofrequency insulated needle with an active tip of 10 mm, needle entry will be performed, and the final placement of the needle tip will be located at the posterior third of the vertebral body in lateral view and just lateral to the body in the anteroposterior view. Once the correct position is confirmed, 0.5 to 1 ml of Omnipaque will be injected, then a 10 cm electrode will be introduced through the RF needle. Before lesioning, a sensory and motor test stimulation is performed to verify the location.