Impact of GON PRF on Central Sensitization in Migraine Patients

Background: Central sensitization and cutaneous allodynia are key mechanisms implicated in migraine chronification and disability. Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) of the greater occipital nerve (GON) has emerged as a neuromodulatory intervention for refractory headache disorders; however, its effects on central sensitization remain insufficiently characterized. Objective: To prospectively evaluate changes in central sensitization, allodynia, and migraine-related disability following GON pulsed radiofrequency in patients with migraine. Methods: In this prospective observational study, adult patients with episodic or chronic migraine undergoing ultrasound-guided GON pulsed radiofrequency were evaluated at baseline and at 1 and 3 months post-procedure. Central sensitization was assessed using the Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI), cutaneous allodynia using the Allodynia Symptom Checklist (ASC-12), and migraine-related disability using the Migraine Disability Assessment Scale (MIDAS). Monthly headache days and acute medication use were also recorded. Results: Changes in CSI, ASC-12, MIDAS scores, headache frequency, and acute medication use over follow-up were analyzed using repeated-measures statistical methods. Conclusions: This study provides prospective data on sensory and clinical outcomes following GON pulsed radiofrequency, contributing to the understanding of its potential role in modulating central sensitization in migraine.

NCT Number	NCT07343427
Lead Sponsor	Ankara City Hospital Bilkent
Conditions	Migraine, Central Sensitization
Enrollment	100 participants
Start Date	2026-02-01
Primary Completion	2026-06-01 (estimated)
Study Completion	2026-09-01 (estimated)
Updated on ClinicalTrials.gov	2026-05-12