Peripheral nerve ablation for limb pain

Chronic limb pain can occur in a joint, such as the hip, shoulder or knee and is most often due to osteoarthritis. Other causes of chronic limb pain include traumatic injury, rheumatoid arthritis, postoperative pain syndromes, or soft tissue dysfunction (muscles, tendons, ligaments). Nerve ablation can be accomplished in several ways, including radiofrequency ablation, chemical ablation, and surgical ablation.

Status: Decision completed

Why is peripheral nerve ablation being reviewed?

Peripheral nerve ablation is one of many available treatments for patients with limb pain. This topic was selected based on high concerns for the safety and efficacy of the procedure and medium/high concern for cost.

Primary criteria ranking

  • Safety = High
  • Efficacy = High
  • Cost = Medium/High

Documentation

Assessment timeline

  • Draft key questions published: July 26, 2018
    • Public comment period: July 27 to August 9, 2018
  • Final key questions published: September 6, 2018
  • Draft report published: November 1, 2018
    • Public comment period: November 1 to November 30, 2018
  • Final report published: December 18, 2018
  • HTCC public meeting: January 18, 2019