Willy Halim

M.D. FIPP.
Anaesthesiologist / pain specialist
St-Anna Zorggroep
Bogardeind 2
P.O. Box 90
5664 EH Geldrop
5660 AB Geldrop
Phone Poli:
+ 31 40 286 48 61
Fax Poli:
+ 31 40 286 42 60
E-mail:
w.halim@st-anna.nl
Pulsed Radio Frequency and the applications in the Pain Therapy:
Radiofrequency is a special type of electricity , which (500.000/sec.) is much higher than
electricity at home (50/sec.). Radiofrequency has been used in the treatment of pain for over
30 years. A special type of needle was positioned near to the nerve causing the pain. This had
to be done very accurately using X-ray control to make sure that the effect would be optimal.
Radiofrequency current was sent through the needle and this caused heating of the needle tip.
This caused some damaged to the nerve, just enough to relieve the pain.
Pulsed radiofrequency is different. It uses the same type of electrical current which is not
applied continuously but in short bursts. When this technique is used the tip of the needle does
not heat up and there is no destruction of the nerve at all. What happens is that the nerve
reacts to the electricity by changing its behaviour. This is sufficient to relieve the pain. As we
look at it now this has been the working mechanism of radiofrequency in the past just as well.
Are there any complications? The method of pulsed radiofrequency to the best of our
knowledge has no complications. It is harmless, non-destructive method. This is not to say
that complications are totally impossible. Sticking a needle into a human body may cause
bleeding around the needle for instance. In practise that is very exceptional.
Because of this safety and the effect we can use this method not only for the dorsal ganglion
but also the perifere nerves, even Trigger Points, the muscle, tendon, joint etc.
Radiofrequency by Prof.Dr.Menno E.Sluijter from: the Swiss Paraplegic Center,
Nottwil, Switzerland