Trial Outcomes & Findings for Pulsed Radiofrequency vs. Steroid Injections for Occipital Neuralgia (NCT NCT01670825)

NCT ID: NCT01670825

Last Updated: 2017-03-01

Results Overview

The change in the numeric pain scale score from baseline to 6 weeks after treatment. The scale ranges from 0-10. The minimum score is 0 which is defined as no pain and the maximum score is 10, which is defined as the worst pain imaginable. The best possible outcome would be a 0. The worst possible outcome would be a 10.

Recruitment status

COMPLETED

Study phase

NA

Target enrollment

81 participants

Primary outcome timeframe

From baseline to 6 weeks after the start of treatment

Results posted on

2017-03-01

Participant Flow

Participant milestones

Participant milestones
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Overall Study
STARTED
42
39
Overall Study
COMPLETED
42
39
Overall Study
NOT COMPLETED
0
0

Reasons for withdrawal

Withdrawal data not reported

Baseline Characteristics

Pulsed Radiofrequency vs. Steroid Injections for Occipital Neuralgia

Baseline characteristics by cohort

Baseline characteristics by cohort
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=42 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=39 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Total
n=81 Participants
Total of all reporting groups
Age, Categorical
<=18 years
0 Participants
n=39 Participants
0 Participants
n=41 Participants
0 Participants
n=35 Participants
Age, Categorical
Between 18 and 65 years
42 Participants
n=39 Participants
39 Participants
n=41 Participants
81 Participants
n=35 Participants
Age, Categorical
>=65 years
0 Participants
n=39 Participants
0 Participants
n=41 Participants
0 Participants
n=35 Participants
Age, Continuous
41.67 years
STANDARD_DEVIATION 10.72 • n=39 Participants
41.08 years
STANDARD_DEVIATION 13.61 • n=41 Participants
41.37 years
STANDARD_DEVIATION 12.16 • n=35 Participants
Gender
Female
20 Participants
n=39 Participants
18 Participants
n=41 Participants
38 Participants
n=35 Participants
Gender
Male
22 Participants
n=39 Participants
21 Participants
n=41 Participants
43 Participants
n=35 Participants
Region of Enrollment
United States
41 participants
n=39 Participants
38 participants
n=41 Participants
79 participants
n=35 Participants
Region of Enrollment
Germany
1 participants
n=39 Participants
1 participants
n=41 Participants
2 participants
n=35 Participants

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 6 weeks after the start of treatment

The change in the numeric pain scale score from baseline to 6 weeks after treatment. The scale ranges from 0-10. The minimum score is 0 which is defined as no pain and the maximum score is 10, which is defined as the worst pain imaginable. The best possible outcome would be a 0. The worst possible outcome would be a 10.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=42 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=39 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Change in Average Occipital Pain 6 Weeks After the Start of Treatment
3.068 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 2.431
3.738 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 2.415

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 6 weeks after the start of treatment

The change in the numeric pain scale score from baseline to 6 weeks after treatment. The scale ranges from 0-10. The minimum score is 0 which is defined as no pain and the maximum score is 10, which is defined as the worst pain imaginable. The best possible outcome would be a 0. The worst possible outcome would be a 10.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=41 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=39 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Change in Worst Occipital Pain 6 Weeks After the Start of Treatment
5.354 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 3.165
6.064 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 3.226

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 6 months after the start of treatment

The change in the numeric pain scale score from baseline to 6 months after treatment. The scale ranges from 0-10. The minimum score is 0 which is defined as no pain and the maximum score is 10, which is defined as the worst pain imaginable. The best possible outcome would be a 0. The worst possible outcome would be a 10.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=42 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=39 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Change in Average Occipital Pain 6 Months After the Start of Treatment
4.312 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 2.232
4.765 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 1.998

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 6 months after the start of treatment

This outcome measures the change in the numeric pain scale score from baseline to 6 months after treatment. The scale ranges from 0-10. The minimum score is 0 which is defined as no pain and the maximum score is 10, which is defined as the worst pain imaginable. The best possible outcome would be a 0. The worst possible outcome would be a 10.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=42 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=39 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Change in Worst Occipital Pain 6 Months After the Start of Treatment
6.705 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 2.892
7.541 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 2.416

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 3 months after the start of treatment

This outcome measures the change in the numeric pain scale score from baseline to 3 months after treatment. The scale ranges from 0-10. The minimum score is 0 which is defined as no pain and the maximum score is 10, which is defined as the worst pain imaginable. The best possible outcome would be a 0. The worst possible outcome would be a 10.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=40 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=37 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Change in Average Occipital Pain 3 Months After the Start of Treatment
3.791 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 2.573
4.441 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 2.237

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 3 months after the start of treatment

This outcome measures the change in the numeric pain scale score from baseline to 3 months after treatment. The scale ranges from 0-10. The minimum score is 0 which is defined as no pain and the maximum score is 10, which is defined as the worst pain imaginable. The best possible outcome would be a 0. The worst possible outcome would be a 10.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=40 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=37 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Change in Worst Occipital Pain 3 Months After the Start of Treatment
5.850 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 3.292
7.149 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 2.967

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 2 weeks after the start of treatment

This outcome measures the change in the numeric pain scale score from baseline to 2 weeks after treatment. The scale ranges from 0-10. The minimum score is 0 which is defined as no pain and the maximum score is 10, which is defined as the worst pain imaginable. The best possible outcome would be a 0. The worst possible outcome would be a 10.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=42 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=39 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Change in Average Occipital Pain 2 Weeks After the Start of Treatment
2.495 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 2.094
3.694 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 2.221

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 2 weeks after the start of treatment

This outcome measures the change in the numeric pain scale score from baseline to 2 weeks after treatment. The scale ranges from 0-10. The minimum score is 0 which is defined as no pain and the maximum score is 10, which is defined as the worst pain imaginable. The best possible outcome would be a 0. The worst possible outcome would be a 10.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=42 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=39 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Change in Worst Occipital Pain 2 Weeks After the Start of Treatment
4.726 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 2.528
5.846 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 2.618

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 2 weeks after the start of treatment

This outcome measures the change in the numeric pain scale score from baseline to 2 weeks after treatment. The scale ranges from 0-10. The minimum score is 0 which is defined as no pain and the maximum score is 10, which is defined as the worst pain imaginable. The best possible outcome would be a 0. The worst possible outcome would be a 10.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=25 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=20 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Change in Overall Average Headache Pain 2 Weeks After the Start of Treatment
3.392 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 2.106
4.220 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 2.496

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 2 weeks after the start of treatment

This outcome measures the change in the numeric pain scale score from baseline to 2 weeks after treatment. The scale ranges from 0-10. The minimum score is 0 which is defined as no pain and the maximum score is 10, which is defined as the worst pain imaginable. The best possible outcome would be a 0. The worst possible outcome would be a 10.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=25 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=20 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Change in Overall Worst Headache Pain 2 Weeks After the Start of Treatment
5.540 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 2.669
6.650 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 2.744

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 6 weeks after the start of treatment

This outcome measures the change in the numeric pain scale score from baseline to 6 weeks after treatment. The scale ranges from 0-10. The minimum score is 0 which is defined as no pain and the maximum score is 10, which is defined as the worst pain imaginable. The best possible outcome would be a 0. The worst possible outcome would be a 10.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=24 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=20 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Change in Overall Average Headache Pain 6 Weeks After the Start of Treatment
3.678 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 2.448
4.410 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 2.544

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 6 weeks after the start of treatment

This outcome measures the change in the numeric pain scale score from baseline to 6 weeks after treatment. The scale ranges from 0-10. The minimum score is 0 which is defined as no pain and the maximum score is 10, which is defined as the worst pain imaginable. The best possible outcome would be a 0. The worst possible outcome would be a 10.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=24 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=20 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Change in Overall Worst Overall Headache Pain 6 Weeks After the Start of Treatment
6.583 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 3.202
6.825 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 3.109

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 3 months after the start of treatment

This outcome measures the change in the numeric pain scale score from baseline to 3 months after treatment. The scale ranges from 0-10. The minimum score is 0 which is defined as no pain and the maximum score is 10, which is defined as the worst pain imaginable. The best possible outcome would be a 0. The worst possible outcome would be a 10.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=24 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=18 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Change in Overall Average Headache Pain 3 Months After the Start of Treatment
4.000 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 2.870
4.694 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 2.480

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 3 months after the start of treatment

This outcome measures the change in the numeric pain scale score from baseline to 3 months after treatment. The scale ranges from 0-10. The minimum score is 0 which is defined as no pain and the maximum score is 10, which is defined as the worst pain imaginable. The best possible outcome would be a 0. The worst possible outcome would be a 10.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=24 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=18 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Change in Overall Worst Headache Pain 3 Months After the Start of Treatment
6.522 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 3.232
7.417 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 2.952

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 6 months after the start of treatment

This outcome measures the change in the numeric pain scale score from baseline to 6 months after treatment. The scale ranges from 0-10. The minimum score is 0 which is defined as no pain and the maximum score is 10, which is defined as the worst pain imaginable. The best possible outcome would be a 0. The worst possible outcome would be a 10.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=24 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=18 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Change in Overall Average Headache Pain 6 Months After the Start of Treatment
6.761 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 3.096
7.556 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 2.623

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 6 months after the start of treatment

This outcome measures the change in the numeric pain scale score from baseline to 6 months after treatment. The scale ranges from 0-10. The minimum score is 0 which is defined as no pain and the maximum score is 10, which is defined as the worst pain imaginable. The best possible outcome would be a 0. The worst possible outcome would be a 10.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=24 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=18 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Change in Overall Worst Headache Pain 6 Months After the Start of Treatment
6.761 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 3.096
7.556 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 2.623

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 6 weeks after the start of treatment

This outcome will measure the participant's perceived improvement in sleep using the Athens Insomnia Scale. Scores in this scale can range from 0 to 24. 0 being the best possible outcome and 24 being the worst possible outcome. A score greater than or equal to 6 indicates a presence of insomnia.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=40 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=38 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Change in the Presence of Insomnia 6 Weeks After the Start of Treatment Measured Using the Athens Insomnia Scale.
10.025 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 5.972
8.132 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 5.297

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 3 months after the start of treatment

This outcome will measure the participant's perceived improvement in sleep using the Athens Insomnia Scale. Scores in this scale can range from 0 to 24. 0 being the best possible outcome and 24 being the worst possible outcome. A score greater than or equal to 6 indicates a presence of insomnia.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=39 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=36 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Change in the Presence of Insomnia 3 Months After the Start of Treatment Measured Using the Athens Insomnia Scale.
9.539 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 6.043
9.069 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 5.955

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 6 months after the start of treatment

This outcome will measure the participant's perceived improvement in sleep using the Athens Insomnia Scale. Scores in this scale can range from 0 to 24. 0 being the best possible outcome and 24 being the worst possible outcome. A score greater than or equal to 6 indicates a presence of insomnia.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=39 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=36 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Change in the Presence of Insomnia 6 Months After the Start of Treatment Measured Using the Athens Insomnia Scale.
9.256 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 6.210
9.431 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 5.765

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 6 weeks after the start of treatment

This outcome will measure the change in severity of depression using the Beck's Depression Inventory. Scores in this inventory can range from 0 to 63. 0 being the best possible outcome and 63 being the worst possible outcome. A score between 14 and 19 indicates mild depression and a score greater than or equal 29 indicates severe depression.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=40 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=38 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Change in the Severity of Depression 6 Weeks After the Start of Treatment Measured Using the Beck's Depression Inventory
12.775 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 11.079
10.842 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 9.945

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 3 months after the start of treatment

This outcome will measure the change in severity of depression using the Beck's Depression Inventory. Scores in this inventory can range from 0 to 63. 0 being the best possible outcome and 63 being the worst possible outcome. A score between 14 and 19 indicates mild depression and a score greater than or equal 29 indicates severe depression.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=39 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=36 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Change in the Severity of Depression 3 Months After the Start of Treatment Measured Using the Beck's Depression Inventory
11.333 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 10.207
11.972 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 10.287

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 6 months after the start of treatment

This outcome will measure the change in severity of depression using the Beck's Depression Inventory. Scores in this inventory can range from 0 to 63. 0 being the best possible outcome and 63 being the worst possible outcome. A score between 14 and 19 indicates mild depression and a score greater than or equal 29 indicates severe depression.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=39 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=36 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Change in the Severity of Depression 6 Months After the Start of Treatment Measured Using the Beck's Depression Inventory
12.590 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 10.684
12.250 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 10.103

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 6 weeks after the start of treatment

This outcome will measure the number of days the patient has severe migraine headaches in the week (7 days) prior to the 6 week follow-up visit. A severe headache is defined as a headache with a score greater than or equal to 7 on the numeric pain scale.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=24 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=20 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Severe Headache Frequency for Migraine Headaches 6 Weeks After the Start of Treatment Measured Asking the Number of Severe Headaches in the Past Week.
1.708 days
Standard Deviation 1.958
1.810 days
Standard Deviation 2.421

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 6 weeks after the start of treatment

This outcome will measure the number of days the patient has severe occipital neuralgia headaches in the week (7 days) prior to the 6 week follow-up visit. A severe headache is defined as a headache with a score greater than or equal to 7 on the numeric pain scale.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=41 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=38 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Severe Headache Frequency for Occipital Neuralgia Headaches 6 Weeks After the Start of Treatment Measured Asking the Number of Severe Headache Days 1 Week Prior to Study Visit
1.436 days
Standard Deviation 2.237
1.436 days
Standard Deviation 2.087

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 3 months after the start of treatment

This outcome will measure the number of days the patient has severe migraine headaches in the week (7 days) prior to the 3 month follow-up visit. A severe headache is defined as a headache with a score greater than or equal to 7 on the numeric pain scale.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=23 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=19 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Severe Headache Frequency for Migraine Headaches 3 Months After the Start of Treatment Measured Asking the Number of Severe Headache Days 1 Week Prior to Study Visit
2.087 days
Standard Deviation 2.109
2.263 days
Standard Deviation 2.232

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: 3 months

This outcome will measure the number of days the patient has severe occipital neuralgia headaches in the week (7 days) prior to the 6 week follow-up visit. A severe headache is defined as a headache with a score greater than or equal to 7 on the numeric pain scale.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=39 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=37 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Severe Headache Frequency for Occipital Neuralgia Headaches 3 Months After the Start of Treatment Measured Asking the Number of Severe Headache Days 1 Week Prior to Study Visit
1.846 days
Standard Deviation 2.335
1.919 days
Standard Deviation 2.046

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 6 months after the start of treatment

This outcome will measure the number of days the patient has severe migraine headaches in the week (7 days) prior to the 6 month follow-up visit. A severe headache is defined as a headache with a score greater than or equal to 7 on the numeric pain scale.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=23 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=19 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Severe Headache Frequency for Migraine Headaches 6 Months After the Start of Treatment Measured Asking the Number of Severe Headache Days 1 Week Prior to Study Visit
2.044 days
Standard Deviation 2.099
2.368 days
Standard Deviation 2.409

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 6 months after the start of treatment

This outcome will measure the number of days the patient has severe occipital neuralgia headaches in the week (7 days) prior to the 6 week follow-up visit. A severe headache is defined as a headache with a score greater than or equal to 7 on the numeric pain scale.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=39 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=37 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Severe Headache Frequency for Occipital Neuralgia Headaches 6 Months After the Start of Treatment Measured Asking the Number of Severe Headache Days 1 Week Prior to Study Visit
2.128 days
Standard Deviation 2.308
2.162 days
Standard Deviation 2.154

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 6 weeks after the start of treatment

This outcome measures what the patient feels they cannot do because headaches. This outcome is measured using the Headache Impact Test. Scores in this test range from range from 36 to 78, with higher scores indicating greater negative impact. A score of less than 50 indicates minimal impact, while a score greater than or equal to 60 indicates headaches are severely impacting one's life.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=40 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=38 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Disability Due to Headaches 6 Weeks After the Start of Treatment Measured Using the Headache Impact Scale
60.087 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 7.972
59.553 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 9.093

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 3 months after the start of treatment

This outcome measures what the patient feels they cannot do because headaches. This outcome is measured using the Headache Impact Test. Scores in this test range from range from 36 to 78, with higher scores indicating greater negative impact. A score of less than 50 indicates minimal impact, while a score greater than or equal to 60 indicates headaches are severely impacting one's life.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=39 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=36 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Disability Due to Headaches 3 Months After the Start of Treatment Measured Using the Headache Impact Scale
59.718 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 9.761
60.556 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 10.814

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: From baseline to 6 months after the start of treatment

This outcome measures what the patient feels they cannot do because headaches. This outcome is measured using the Headache Impact Test. Scores in this test range from range from 36 to 78, with higher scores indicating greater negative impact. A score of less than 50 indicates minimal impact, while a score greater than or equal to 60 indicates headaches are severely impacting one's life.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=39 Participants
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=36 Participants
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Disability Due to Headaches 6 Months After the Start of Treatment Measured Using the Headache Impact Scale
59.641 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 10.251
61.389 units on a scale
Standard Deviation 8.800

Adverse Events

Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection

Serious events: 3 serious events
Other events: 0 other events
Deaths: 0 deaths

Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency

Serious events: 6 serious events
Other events: 0 other events
Deaths: 0 deaths

Serious adverse events

Serious adverse events
Measure
Pulsed Radiofrequency + Local Anesthetic Injection
n=42 participants at risk
Local anesthetic injection plus pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve Pulsed radiofrequency: Local anesthetic injection and pulsed radiofrequency treatment x 6 minutes over each affected occipital nerve
Corticosteroid Injection + Sham Pulsed Radiofrequency
n=39 participants at risk
Injection with corticosteroid and local anesthetic over the occipital nerve(s)plus "sham" pulsed radiofrequency Corticosteroid injection: Corticosteroid and local anesthetic injection plus sham pulsed radiofrequency over each affected occipital nerve
Nervous system disorders
Dizzines
0.00%
0/42
2.6%
1/39 • Number of events 1
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders
Swelling at injection site
2.4%
1/42 • Number of events 1
5.1%
2/39 • Number of events 2
Nervous system disorders
Worsening of headached
2.4%
1/42 • Number of events 1
5.1%
2/39 • Number of events 2
Gastrointestinal disorders
Vomiting/blurred vision
0.00%
0/42
2.6%
1/39 • Number of events 1
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders
Rash
2.4%
1/42 • Number of events 1
0.00%
0/39

Other adverse events

Adverse event data not reported

Additional Information

Steven Cohen

Johns Hopkins Hospital

Phone: 410-955-1818

Results disclosure agreements

  • Principal investigator is a sponsor employee
  • Publication restrictions are in place