The PMRExam Podcast – Détails, épisodes et analyse

In this Pain Exam Podcast episode, Dr. David Rosenblum discusses a journal club article on low volume neurolytic retrocrural celiac plexus blocks for visceral cancer pain. The study reviewed 507 patients with severe malignancy-related abdominal pain, with data retained for 455 patients at the 5-month mark. Dr. Rosenblum explains that the procedure involves injecting 3-5ml of 6% aqueous phenol at the T12-L1 level under fluoroscopic guidance, with an average procedure time of 16.3 minutes. The study found significant pain relief lasting up to six months, reduced opioid consumption, and improved quality of life for patients with primary abdominal cancer or metastatic disease. Dr. Rosenblum shares his personal experience with celiac plexus blocks, including the trans-aortic approach he trained on, and mentions his interest in ultrasound-guided approaches. He also announces upcoming teaching engagements at ASPN, Pain Week, and other conferences, as well as CME ultrasound courses available through nrappain.org. Additionally, he mentions a new community page on the website where users can share board preparation information, though he emphasizes that remembered board questions should not be posted as he is a board question writer himself.

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Dr. David Rosenblum introduces the Pain Exam Podcast and shares information about upcoming events. He mentions teaching ultrasound at ASPN in July, attending Pain Week in September, and participating in the Latin American Pain Society conference. Dr. Rosenblum also promotes his CME ultrasound courses available at nrappain.org and mentions he's considering organizing another regenerative medicine course in fall or winter. He offers private training for those wanting more intensive ultrasound instruction.

Dr. Rosenblum announces a new community page on the nrappain.org website for board preparation. He explains that registered users can access free information and keywords relevant to board exams. He emphasizes that users should not post remembered questions as this would be inappropriate, noting that he himself is a board question writer for various pain boards. Dr. Rosenblum mentions that a post about phenol in this community inspired today's podcast topic.

Dr. Rosenblum introduces a journal article on low volume neurolytic retrocrural celiac plexus block for visceral cancer pain, a retrospective review of 507 patients with severe malignancy-related abdominal pain. He explains that the study assessed pain relief provided by this procedure, its duration, reduction in daily opioid consumption, and quality of life improvements. The patients received neurolytic blocks without previous diagnostic blocks due to multiple comorbidities, which Dr. Rosenblum acknowledges is sometimes necessary with very sick patients despite the typical preference for diagnostic blocks before neurolysis.

Dr. Rosenblum shares his personal training experience with trans-aortic celiac plexus blocks, where a needle is inserted through the aorta after confirming no plaques or aneurysms are present. He describes it as a safe and effective procedure despite sounding intimidating. He mentions he's only performed a handful of these procedures and doesn't do many now as an outpatient pain doctor.

Dr. Rosenblum details the study methods, noting that of 507 patients studied, data for 455 was retained at the end of the review. Patients were evaluated before and after the neurolytic retrocrural celiac plexus block under fluoroscopic guidance. Assessment included procedure duration, pain scores (0-10 scale), daily opioid consumption, and quality of life improvement. Follow-up was completed six months after the procedure, showing improved pain scores, reduced opioid consumption, and better quality of life throughout the study period. Some pain returned during months 4-6 due to disease progression and the anticipated duration of the neurolytic agent. The study noted a 6.7% initial vascular contrast uptake during the procedure while using digital subtraction angiography with fluoroscopy.

Dr. Rosenblum discusses the study's limitations, including the need for a larger sample size and a prospective trial with a control group, though he acknowledges this is unrealistic given the patient population. He mentions that a proven quality of life questionnaire would be beneficial, and that comparing alcohol, phenol, and RF thermocoagulation would be interesting to evaluate duration effects and side effects. The study concluded that low volume neurolytic retrocrural celiac plexus block with phenol is safe, providing up to six months of pain relief for abdominal pain due to primary malignancy or metastatic spread.

Dr. Rosenblum explains the detailed procedure technique used in the study. The retrocrural celiac plexus was targeted at L1 level with aim towards T12. Anterior and posterior radiographic imaging aligning the spinous process of T12-L1 junction was used with 15-20 degree oblique rotation. Local anesthetic (1% lidocaine with sodium bicarbonate) was infiltrated along the injection path. A 22 or 25 gauge 3.5-7 inch curved spinal needle was used depending on patient body habitus. Dr. Rosenblum notes he typically uses a 6-inch Chiba needle or 25 gauge spinal needle for such procedures.

Dr. Rosenblum continues describing the procedure, noting that the needle was advanced to the anterior border of T12-L1 under multiple imaging views. Contrast dye studies verified spread and location, with digital subtraction angiography used to check for intravascular uptake. A test dose of 1ml of 0.5% bupivacaine with epinephrine per site was administered, which Dr. Rosenblum finds interesting as he typically doesn't mix bupivacaine with epinephrine. After confirming no vascular uptake, 3-5ml of 6% aqueous phenol was injected in 1ml aliquots while communicating with the patient. The average procedure time was 16.3 minutes with minimal or no sedation. Patients remained prone for 30 minutes afterward to avoid neuroforaminal spread, as phenol is heavier and more viscous than alcohol.

Dr. Rosenblum explains that patients were monitored in recovery for one hour for adverse events and their ability to eat and void easily. They were discharged once hospital post-anesthetic criteria were met and received a follow-up call 24 hours later. Dr. Rosenblum praises the study and notes that the procedure looks similar to a lumbar sympathetic plexus block, which is also a sympathetic block.

Dr. Rosenblum shares his interest in ultrasound-guided celiac plexus blocks but acknowledges concerns about bowel perforation. He mentions a conversation with an interventional radiology colleague who suggested a transhepatic approach. Dr. Rosenblum recalls scanning a very thin patient where the aorta was easily visible and close to the anterior abdominal wall, making the celiac plexus potentially accessible if bowel perforation, liver bleeding, or gallbladder perforation could be avoided. He shares an experience with a patient suffering from severe pancreatitis pain who received temporary relief from a paravertebral thoracic nerve block at T8-T10, noting that paravertebral blocks provide some sympathetic spread.

Dr. Rosenblum concludes by recommending the article, noting its well-written analysis and graphs showing morphine consumption dropping over months following the procedure. He suggests neurolytic procedures are underutilized because they sound intimidating. He again encourages listeners to check out the community he created with separate chat rooms for regenerative medicine, regional anesthesia, and pain boards, where users can share keywords but not specific board questions. Dr. Rosenblum reminds listeners about upcoming courses and his website resources, mentions an upcoming PRP lecture, and asks for five-star reviews if listeners enjoy the podcast. The episode ends with a standard medical disclaimer.

Reference

https://www.painphysicianjournal.com/current/pdf?article=NTQwOA%3D%3D&journal=113

PRP in the Epidural Space for Radiculopathy

Brooklyn Based Pain Physician, David Rosenblum, MD known for his work publishing and teaching Regenerative Pain Medicine and Ultrasound Guided Pain Procedures hosts this podcast covering the latest and most advanced concepts in Pain Medicine.

Dr. David Rosenblum delivered a comprehensive lecture covering several key topics in pain management. He discussed his upcoming speaking engagements at PainWeek, ASPN and great upcoming meetings like the Latin American Pain Society, and other conferences. Dr. Rosenblum shared his extensive experience with PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) epidural injections, reviewing multiple research studies that support their efficacy. He highlighted three significant studies: a randomized control trial comparing PRP epidural injections to traditional treatments, a CT-guided epidural PRP study, and a 2025 meta-analysis comparing PRP to steroids. Dr. Rosenblum emphasized that PRP treatments are showing comparable or better results than traditional steroid injections, with potentially fewer required treatments and longer-lasting relief. He noted that while PRP is currently not covered by insurance, it represents a growing trend in 'natural' treatment approaches that patients increasingly prefer.

Dr. Rosenblum announced his upcoming lectures at Pain Week focusing on ultrasound and regenerative medicine, followed by presentations at the Latin American Pain Society in Chile and the New York, New Jersey Pain Conference. He mentioned the SoMeDocs online pain conference accessible through nrappain.org, and upcoming ultrasound training sessions in New York City.

Dr. Rosenblum discussed a randomized control trial involving 30 patients receiving transforaminal epidural injections. The study showed that PRP patients demonstrated significant improvements in leg pain scores at 6, 12, and 24 weeks. He noted that while the study didn't use contrast, he personally prefers using contrast diluted with saline for better visualization.

Dr. Rosenblum reviewed a study comparing CT-guided epidural PRP versus steroid injections, questioning the necessity of CT guidance. The study included 60 patients and showed similar results between PRP and steroid groups at six weeks, though he criticized the short follow-up period, noting that PRP typically takes months to show full effects.

Dr. Rosenblum presented a 2025 meta-analysis comparing PRP to steroids in epidural injections. The analysis included 310 patients across five RCTs, demonstrating comparable efficacy between PRP and steroid injections without increased adverse events. He emphasized that his clinical experience shows patients typically require fewer PRP injections compared to steroid treatments.

Register for Next Weeks SoMeDocs Pain Conference

References

Wongjarupong, Asarn, et al. ""Platelet-Rich Plasma" epidural injection an emerging strategy in lumbar disc herniation: a Randomized Controlled Trial." BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders 24.1 (2023): 335.

Bise, Sylvain, et al. "Comparison of interlaminar CT-guided epidural platelet-rich plasma versus steroid injection in patients with lumbar radicular pain." European radiology 30 (2020): 3152-3160.

Muthu S, Viswanathan VK, Gangadaran P. Is platelet-rich plasma better than steroids as epidural drug of choice in lumbar disc disease with radiculopathy? Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Exp Biol Med (Maywood). 2025 Feb 4;250:10390. doi: 10.3389/ebm.2025.10390. PMID: 39968415; PMCID: PMC11832311.

Episode Title: Ketamine for Cancer and Pain Management - Journal Club

Host: David Rosenblum, MD

Upcoming Free Webinars:
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3. Cervical Ultrasound: Anatomy and Interventional Pain Targets
   Sponsored by Clarius, this session will explore advanced imaging techniques. Register!

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Join us for this insightful episode as we explore the potential of ketamine in transforming pain management practices!

Summary

In today's episode, we delve into the emerging role of ketamine in managing cancer and chronic pain. Our discussion is anchored around a comprehensive review article titled "Ketamine Use for Cancer and Chronic Pain Management," published in Frontiers in Pharmacology on February 1, 2021. This review, authored by Clayton Culp, Hee Kee Kim, and Salahadin Abdi, explores ketamine's potential as an analgesic in chronic pain conditions, particularly cancer-related neuropathic pain.

Key Points from the Review Article:
- Mechanism of Action: Ketamine functions as an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist, providing analgesic effects at sub-anesthetic doses. Its ability to counteract central nervous system sensitization makes it effective in opioid-induced hyperalgesia.
- Clinical Efficacy: Recent studies highlight ketamine's potential to reduce pain scores and opioid consumption, offering a promising alternative for patients with refractory pain.
- Safety Profile: At lower doses used for analgesia, ketamine's safety and adverse event profile are significantly improved compared to its use as an anesthetic.
- Pharmacogenomics and Interactions: The article discusses how genetic variations can affect ketamine metabolism and highlights potential drug interactions that clinicians should be aware of.

Reference

Culp, Clayton, Hee Kee Kim, and Salahadin Abdi. "Ketamine use for cancer and chronic pain management." Frontiers in Pharmacology 11 (2021): 599721.

Episode Title: Evidence-Based Regenerative Pain Medicine with Guilherme Ferreira Dos Santos, MD CIPS

Host: David Rosenblum  
Guest: Guilherme Ferreira Dos Santos, MD CIPS

Episode Overview:
In this insightful episode of the PainExam Podcast, Dr. David Rosenblum sits down with Dr. Guilherme Ferreira Dos Santos, a distinguished expert in pain medicine who is well known for his research, educational endeavors and expertise in Regenerative Pain Medicine and Ultrasound-Guided interventions. Together, they delve into the evolving landscape of regenerative pain medicine, focusing on evidence-based practices and the standardization of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) quality. 

Key Topics Discussed: 

- Evidence-Based Regenerative Pain Medicine: An exploration of current research and practices that inform effective pain management strategies.

- PRP Quality and Standardization: Discussion on the importance of PRP quality in treatment outcomes and the need for standardized protocols.

- Ultrasound-Guided Spine Interventions: Insights into the benefits and techniques of ultrasound guidance in performing spinal interventions, including a conversation on avoiding cervical epidurals.

- Access to Pain Care: A comparative analysis of the differences in access to pain care across Portugal, Spain, the USA, and Canada, highlighting challenges and opportunities in each region.

- Pain Expo Dubai: An overview of the upcoming Pain Expo in Dubai, where both Dr. Rosenblum and Dr. Ferreira Dos Santos will be presenting, sharing their expertise with a global audience.

Guest Biography:  
Dr. Guilherme Ferreira Dos Santos is an Interventional Pain Medicine Specialist and Clinical Scientist with a career spanning Portugal, the United States, Canada, and Spain. He began his journey at the University of Lisbon, earning his Medical Degree in 2014, followed by a five-year residency program in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, which he completed in 2020. His fascination with Interventional Pain Medicine led him to the Department of Pain Medicine at Mayo Clinic, where he served as an Invited Clinical Research Scholar in 2018 and 2021 under the mentorship of Dr. Mark Friedrich Hurdle. At Mayo Clinic, he contributed to refining ultrasound-guided techniques for chronic spinal pain.

Dr. Ferreira dos Santos further advanced his expertise with a Clinical Fellowship in Chronic Pain Medicine at the University of Toronto in 2022, training under esteemed mentors such as Dr. Anuj Bhatia, Dr. Paul Tumber, and Dr. Philip Peng. In this role, he was instrumental in advancing education on ultrasound-guided techniques nationally and internationally, which deepened his clinical skills and passion for mentorship.

Currently based in Barcelona, Dr. Ferreira Dos Santos serves as the Senior Specialist and Responsible Clinical Lead for the Education and Training Excellence Center in Pain Medicine at Hospital Clínic de Barcelona. He is also the Director of the Clinical Fellowship Program in Interventional Pain Medicine. Throughout his career, he has lectured at international conferences in over 25 countries and authored more than 35 peer-reviewed Q1 articles. His contributions have earned him several accolades, including the 2018 Grant for Young Clinical Researcher of the Year in Pain Medicine from the Grünenthal Foundation, the 2020 Gofeld Academic Scholarship Award, and the 2022 Nikolai Bogduk Young Investigator Grant. His journey across four countries has shaped his approach to clinical care, research, and mentorship, fueling his mission to improve pain management globally.

 Listen to the Episode:  
Tune in to gain valuable insights from Dr. Ferreira Dos Santos and learn more about the future of pain medicine. Available on all major podcast platforms.

 Links and Resources: 
- NRAP Academy
- Follow Dr. David Rosenblum on X and LinkedIn
- Follow Dr. Guilherme Ferreira Dos Santos on LinkedIn

 Join the Conversation: 
We encourage our listeners to reach out with their thoughts and questions! Use the hashtag #PainExamPodcast on social media to engage with us.

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 Next Episode Preview:   
Stay tuned for our next episode, where we will continue to explore the latest advancements in pain management and treatment options.

 Painexam Podcast Episode Show Notes 

 Episode Title:  Exploring Naturopathy in Pain Medicine with Dr. Sarah Trahan

 Host: David Rosenblum, MD  
David Rosenblum is a dedicated pain management specialist with extensive experience in treating chronic pain conditions. He is passionate about integrating various approaches to improve patient outcomes and enhance quality of life. His expertise and commitment to patient-centered care make him a trusted voice in the field of pain medicine. His NY Practice is located in Brooklyn and Garden City and through his international educaitonal platform he has attracted physicians and pateints from all over the world to seek out consultation on the latest breakthroughs in interventional pain management. 

 Guest: Dr. Sarah Trahan  
Dr. Sarah Trahan is a licensed naturopathic physician with a focus on holistic approaches to pain management and regenerative therapies. With a background in both conventional and alternative medicine, Dr. Trahan is committed to empowering patients through education and personalized treatment plans that address the root causes of pain.

 Episode Summary: 
In this episode, David Rosenblum, MD, interviews Dr. Sarah Trahan to explore the role of naturopathy in pain medicine and the potential of regenerative therapies. Dr. Trahan shares her insights on how naturopathic principles can complement traditional pain management approaches, offering a comprehensive view of patient care.

 Key Discussion Points: 

-  ntroduction to Naturopathy: 
  Dr. Trahan explains the philosophy of naturopathic medicine and its emphasis on treating the whole person rather than just symptoms.

-  The Role of Naturopathy in Pain Management: 
  The conversation delves into how naturopathy can be integrated into pain management strategies, including dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and natural supplements.

- Regenerative Therapies: 
  Dr. Trahan discusses the latest advancements in regenerative therapies, focusing on how these approaches can be applied in the context of pain management without delving into stem cell treatments.

- Patient-Centered Care: 
  Emphasizing the importance of a collaborative approach, Dr. Trahan shares strategies for working with patients to develop tailored treatment plans that align with their individual needs and preferences.

- Success Stories  
  Dr. Trahan recounts some of her most impactful approaches and  success stories, illustrating the benefits of combining naturopathic and conventional approaches to pain relief.

- NRAP Academy Online Courses and Workshops:   
  Dr. Trahan highlights the educational opportunities available through the NRAP Academy, which offers online courses and workshops aimed at healthcare professionals interested in enhancing their understanding of naturopathic principles in pain management. Private ultrasound training is also available for those seeking hands-on experience. For more information, visit NRAPpain.org

 Resources  

Pain Management CME Workshop Calendar  

Pain Medicine CME Board Prep and Online Courses  

Tune in to this insightful conversation to learn more about how naturopathy and regenerative therapies can play a vital role in managing pain and improving patient outcomes.

Stay connected with Painexam for more episodes on pain management and treatment innovations. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!

 
For questions or feedback, reach out to us at info@nrappain.org

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This episode promises to provide valuable insights for healthcare professionals and patients alike, highlighting the importance of a holistic approach to pain management.

PainExam Podcast Show 

Episode Title: Exploring PRP and BMAC in Pain Managemen 

Host:   David Rosenblum, MD  
        Release Date:    November 27, 2024  

 Episode Overview: 
In this episode of the PainExam Podcast, Dr. David Rosenblum, a New York-based pain physician, examines the latest research surrounding Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC) in pain management for the knee, shoulder, and spine. Dr. Rosenblum reviews several key studies, providing insights into the efficacy of these regenerative treatments and their implications for clinical practice.

Featured Studies: 

1.  A Comparison of Functional Outcomes in Rotator Cuff Repairs Using Adjunctive Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate vs. Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate With Platelet-Rich Plasma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis**  
   -     Authors:       Seth J. Spicer, Sara Soliman, Robert Malek, Mitchell Kaplan, Jensen Clark, Nicholas Averell, Brandon Goodwin, Richard Jermyn  
   -  Published in:  Cureus. 2024 Aug 23;16(8):e67594. doi: 10.7759/cureus.67594  
   -  Summary: This systematic review evaluates the outcomes of rotator cuff repairs (RCR) using BMAC alone versus BMAC combined with PRP. The analysis included three studies and found no significant difference in functional outcomes between the two groups, suggesting that BMAC alone may be adequate, potentially reducing costs and resource use.

2.        Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate Versus Platelet-Rich Plasma for Treating Knee Osteoarthritis: A One-Year Non-Randomized Retrospective Comparative Study        
   -  Authors: Abed El-Hakim El-Kadiry, Carlos Lumbao, Natasha Salame, Moutih Rafei, Riam Shammaa  
   -  Published in:  BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 2022.  
   -  Summary:   This study compared the effectiveness of intra-articular BMAC and PRP injections in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Results indicated that patients receiving BMAC experienced significant improvements in pain and functionality scores over 12 months, while the PRP group showed nonsignificant improvements. BMAC was found to be more effective than PRP in managing knee OA symptoms.

3.  Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis Who Receive Platelet-Rich Plasma or Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate Injections Have Better Outcomes Than Patients Who Receive Hyaluronic Acid: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis**  
   -     Authors:  John W. Belk, Joseph J. Lim, Carson Keeter, Patrick C. McCulloch, Darby A. Houck, Eric C. McCarty, Rachel M. Frank, Matthew J. Kraeutler  
   -       Published in:   World Journal of Stem Cells, 2021.  
   -    Summary:  This systematic review assessed the efficacy of PRP and BMAC compared to hyaluronic acid (HA) injections for knee OA. The findings demonstrated that both PRP and BMAC led to significantly better patient-reported outcomes (PROs) compared to HA, with no significant differences between PRP and BMAC in terms of effectiveness.

4.          Platelet-Rich Plasma vs Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate: An Overview of Mechanisms of Action and Orthobiologic Synergistic Effects         
   - Authors: José Fábio Santos Duarte Lana, Lucas Furtado da Fonseca, Rafael da Rocha Macedo, Tomas Mosaner, William Murrell, Ashok Kumar, Joseph Purita, Marco Antonio Percope de Andrade  
   -  Published in:  World Journal of Stem Cells, 2021.  
   - **Summary:** This overview discusses the mechanisms of action for PRP and BMAC and their potential synergistic effects in musculoskeletal healing. The authors highlight that while both therapies show promise, further research is needed to standardize treatment protocols and fully understand their combined effects on healing processes.

5.  PRP and BMAC for Musculoskeletal Conditions via Biomaterial Carriers*   
   -   Authors:       Fabio S. M. Yamaguchi, Shahin Shams, Eduardo A. Silva, Roberta S. Stilhano  
   -   Published in:** International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2019.  
   -     Summary:  This review focuses on the use of biomaterial carriers in conjunction with PRP and BMAC to enhance regenerative processes for musculoskeletal injuries. The authors emphasize the growing interest in these therapies as alternatives for treating cartilage, muscle, and bone injuries, and discuss the various biomaterials used in clinical trials.

 Key Takeaways: 
- The efficacy of BMAC compared to PRP in various orthopedic applications.
- Insights into the mechanisms of action and potential synergistic effects of PRP and BMAC.
- The importance of research in optimizing treatment protocols for knee osteoarthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions.

   Upcoming Events: 
Visit        NRAPpain.org  to learn about the virtual pain fellowship and other educational resources. Additionally, check out our live courses designed for healthcare professionals looking to enhance their skills in pain management and regenerative therapies.

 Listen to the Episode:  
Join Dr. Rosenblum as he provides expert analysis on these studies and discusses the implications for pain management and regenerative medicine.

 Connect with Us: 
For more information, resources, and to access past episodes, visit our website or follow us on social media. Your feedback and questions are always welcome!

        Disclaimer  
The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. David Rosenblum, a New York-based interventional pain physician, who discusses optimizing genicular nerve chemical ablation. Dr. Rosenblum shares insights as well as his upcoming ultrasound course schedyke in New York City, focusing on regional anesthesia, interventional pain, and IV ultrasound placement. He emphasizes the significance of ultrasound in enhancing pain management procedures and the latest advancements in the field.

For PM&R Board Prep, go to NRAPpain.org

• Overview of Dr. Rosenblum's upcoming ultrasound courses in NYC, including regional anesthesia and IV ultrasound placement. More information can be found here or at NRAPpain.org.
• The role of ultrasound in interventional pain management, specifically in optimizing genicular nerve chemical ablation.
• Discussion on the recent study comparing genicular nerve phenol neurolysis and radiofrequency ablation.
• Importance of updating anatomical targets for pain management.
• Recommendations for expanding the number of targets in pain interventions.
• Insights on the safety and efficacy of chemical neurolysis versus radiofrequency procedures.
• Challenges and considerations in performing neurolytic blocks.
• Future directions in personalized treatment for chronic pain patients.

For Anesthesia Board Prep go to AnesthesiaExam at NRAPpain.org

Dr. Rosenblum references an article from The Korean Journal of Pain discussing the optimization of genicular nerve chemical ablation. Key takeaways include:

• The evolution of anatomical understanding related to genicular nerves.
• The recommendation to consider multiple targets for pain management instead of the traditional three.
• The need for careful patient examination to map pain effectively before intervention.

• Discussion on Knee Pain Management

  • ArticlebyAndresRochaRomero:
  • Discussion on knee pain targeting genicular nerve ablation.
  • Co-authored by Tony Ng and King K Stanley Lam.
  • Published in Korean Journal of Pain.
  • Highlights differences in pain management practices outside the U.S.

  Other Points on Genicular Nerve Chemical Ablation discussed

  • Phenol ablation being used more internationally vs. radiofrequency ablations.

  • Considerations for more extensive targeting of genicular nerves:
    • Importance of the median branch of the nerve to the vastus intermedius. • Expansion of targeting to include 6 nerves, not just 3.
    • Anatomical variations require different approaches.

    Recommendations and Observations

    • Importance of considering patient-specific anatomy and pain. • Repeat procedures and rehabilitation:

    • Concerns about bio intensity and fascia integrity.
    • Emphasizes muscle strengthening exercises to support knee.

  • CRPS Considerations:
  • Elderly patients may develop CRPS post-knee replacement.
  • Importance of lumbar sympathetic block in diagnosis and treatment.

Dr. David Rosenblum, MD is an interventional pain physician based in New York City. With extensive experience in pain management techniques, Dr. Rosenblum is dedicated to advancing the field through education and innovative practices. He is particularly focused on the integration of ultrasound technology into pain management procedures.

Dr. Rosenblum's upcoming ultrasound courses are CME supported, monthly hands on workshops to give clinicians experience with ultrasound imaging to identify targets for nerve block joint injection, soft tissue injection and more..

• Monthly IV Ultrasound Course in Manhattan:
• Ideal for nurses, PAs, anesthesiologists, ER docs.
• Provides practice with phantoms, short lecture on IV ultrasound. • Offers CME credits.

• Ultrasound Courses:
• Held one Saturday a month, mostly in New York, but travels if needed. • Upcoming dates: December 21st, January 11th in Manhattan.

• Presentation Invitation at Pain Expo in Dubai: April 26-27. •  

• Next LAPS conference in September in Chile.

• Subscribe to our podcast for more episodes on advancements in pain management.
• Follow us on social media for updates on upcoming courses and events.
• Share this episode with colleagues who may benefit from learning about ultrasound techniques in pain management.

Upcoming Opportunities and Closing Remarks

• Dr. Rosenblum encourages attending his ultrasound courses and conferences.

• Mention of upcoming conferences in ASPN inMiami, Pain Expo in Dubai, and  LAPS inChile.

• Recommendations to subscribe to newsletters for updates and free info.

• The podcast aims to support pain management professionals.

Exploring the Efficacy of Autologous Platelet Leukocyte Rich Plasma Injections in Chronic Low Back Pain & Understanding Degenerative Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

 Host David Rosenblum, MD

 Episode Date: October 25, 2024

In this episode, Dr. David Rosenblum discusses two significant studies related to chronic low back pain and degenerative lumbar conditions. The first study focuses on the use of autologous platelet leukocyte rich plasma (PLRP) injections for treating atrophied lumbar multifidus muscles, while the second study investigates the correlation between muscle atrophy and the severity of degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis (DLSS).

 Featured Article 1: 
- Effect of Autologous Platelet Leukocyte Rich Plasma Injections on Atrophied Lumbar Multifidus Muscle in Low Back Pain Patients with Monosegmental Degenerative Disc Disease
- **Authors:** Mohamed Hussein, Tamer Hussein
 

 Key Points Discussed 
1. Background:  Correlation between lumbar multifidus muscle dysfunction and chronic low back pain.
2.  Study Overview: 115 patients treated with weekly PLRP injections for six weeks, followed for 24 months.
3.  Outcome Measures:  Significant improvements in NRS and ODI scores, with high patient satisfaction.
4. Conclusions: PLRP injections into the atrophied multifidus muscle are safe and effective for managing chronic low back pain.

 Featured Article 2: 
-   Degenerative Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
 Authors:*  Gen Xia, Xueru Li, Yanbing Shang, Bin Fu, Feng Jiang, Huan Liu, Yongdong Qiao

 Key Points Discussed 
1. Background:  DLSS is a common condition in older adults, often leading to muscle atrophy and disability.
2. Study Overview: A retrospective analysis involving 232 patients to investigate the correlation between muscle atrophy and spinal stenosis severity.
3.  Results: 
   - Significant differences in the ratio of fat-free multifidus muscle cross-sectional area between stenotic and non-stenotic segments.
   - A strong positive correlation was found between multifidus atrophy and the severity of spinal stenosis.
   - The atrophy was more pronounced on symptomatic sides of the spine compared to contralateral sides.
4.  Conclusions:  The findings suggest that more severe spinal stenosis is associated with greater muscle atrophy, emphasizing the importance of addressing muscle health in DLSS patients.

 Discussion: 
Dr. Rosenblum provides insights into how these studies inform clinical practices for treating chronic low back pain and managing degenerative conditions. He emphasizes the need for comprehensive treatment strategies that consider both muscle health and spinal integrity which may be achieved via peripheral nerve stimulation of the medial branch nerve and multifidus muscle or PRP injection in to the multifidus muscle.

 Closing Remarks: 
Listeners are encouraged to stay informed about innovative treatment options and the importance of muscle assessment in managing spinal disorders.

**Follow Us:**
- Subscribe to the Painexam Podcast for more episodes discussing the latest in pain management research and treatments.
- Connect with us on social media [insert social media links].

NRAP Academy also offers:

• Board Review
• Anesthesiology
• Pain Management
• Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
• Regenerative Medicine Training 
• Live Workshops
• Online Training
• The Virtual Pain Fellowship (online training program with discount to live workshops)

Regional Anesthesia & Pain Ultrasound Course

Private Training Available

Email Info@NRAPpain.org

**Disclaimer:** The information presented in this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for medical concerns.

References

Xia, G., Li, X., Shang, Y. et al. Correlation between severity of spinal stenosis and multifidus atrophy in degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 22, 536 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12891-021-04411-5

Hussein M, Hussein T. Effect of autologous platelet leukocyte rich plasma injections on atrophied lumbar multifidus muscle in low back pain patients with monosegmental degenerative disc disease. SICOT J. 2016 Mar 22;2:12. doi: 10.1051/sicotj/2016002. PMID: 27163101; PMCID: PMC4849261.

Dr. Rosenblum reviews the benefits of Scrambler Therapy for CRPS and Neuropathic Pain State. 

• What is Scrambler Therapy?
• Efficacy of Scrambler Therapy for Neuropathic Pain 
• Mechanism of action of Scrambler Therapy
• Regenerative Pain Management Course
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ST was introduced as a chronic pain relief method in 2003. That same year, Giuseppe Marineo published findings from a small clinical trial involving 11 terminal cancer patients suffering from drug-resistant chronic visceral pain, with all participants showing positive responses and significant reductions in pain scores. In a subsequent trial involving 226 patients with neuropathic pain, 80% reported a 50% reduction in pain. Since then, numerous case reports and studies have documented the use of ST for various pain types.

Evidence from these reports suggests that ST is effective for managing both acute and chronic pain from different causes. For instance, a child with acute mixed pain, resistant to pharmacological treatment, experienced significant relief after four ST sessions, with pain levels dropping from 5/10 to 0/10. Additionally, a 52-year-old woman with burning pain from her foot to knee, stemming from a right medullary acute hemorrhage and suffering for 12 years, reported immediate relief after ST. Her pain score decreased from 9/10 to 3/10 on the first day, and to 0/10 by the second day, remaining below 1 on the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) throughout the 10-day treatment period.

In terms of chronic pain, literature includes a case where a patient with shoulder joint pain and limited range of motion saw significant pain reduction and increased mobility after 10 sessions of ST. ST has shown considerable promise in treating severe pain conditions that are typically difficult to manage, such as complex regional pain syndrome and pain related to HIV.

Despite the encouraging results from these case studies, higher-quality evidence is necessary to establish the efficacy of ST, which could be obtained through extensive clinical trials, particularly focusing on chronic pain. Besides the aforementioned studies by Marineo and Sabato et al, additional trials have indicated that ST is an effective treatment for various chronic pain conditions, including low back pain, postherpetic pain, and neuropathic pain. For instance, a prospective study on chronic low back pain patients showed a significant decrease in VAS scores from 8.12 to 3.63 after six treatment days. Another trial involving 10 patients with postherpetic pain reported a drop in the average Numeric Rating Scale (NRS-11) score from 7.64 to 1.46 at baseline and 0.42 to 0.89 after one month, with benefits persisting at two and three months.

ST has also demonstrated significant potential in treating neuropathic pain. In a prospective study of 45 patients with neuropathic pain lasting over three months, 28 experienced a decrease in Douleur Neuropathique en 4 questions (DN4) pain scores, with four patients stopping treatment early due to complete pain resolution. The mean baseline DN4 score dropped from 5.67 to 2.82 by the end of treatment. A pilot randomized trial involving 52 patients found that 21 out of 26 in the intervention group achieved complete pain relief.

While the findings from these studies, along with others that have been systematically analyzed, suggest strong evidence for the efficacy of ST, a definitive conclusion regarding its effectiveness has not yet been reached. A systematic review by Majithia et al concluded that while studies generally indicate ST results in pain reduction with lasting benefits, there are still gaps in the evidence.

This article aims to evaluate the research needs surrounding ST for cancer pain management. While Majithia et al focused on chronic pain across various conditions and noted specific evidence limitations, this study will concentrate on the effectiveness of ST for cancer-related pain. The objective is to identify gaps in the existing literature and provide recommendations for future research through a systematic review. We will specifically analyze the types and levels of evidence supporting the use of ST in managing cancer pain and determine what studies are necessary to enhance the evidence base.

References 

Majithia, N., Smith, T.J., Coyne, P.J. et al. Scrambler Therapy for the management of chronic pain. Support Care Cancer 24, 2807–2814 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-016-3177-3

Mohamed, Mohamed S. I.1; Alkahlout, Lama1; Elgamal, Salma1; Mohiuddin, Amna1; Al-sayed, Talal1; Al-Marri, Hamad1; Zahid, Fatima1; Martínez-Magallanes, Daniela2; Fregni, Felipe2; Doi, Suhail A. R.1; Abdallah, Abdallah M.3; Musa, Omran A.H.1,4; Khan, Muhammad Naseem1; Babu, Giridhara R.1,*. Efficacy of scrambler therapy in chronic neuropathic pain: pairwise and dose-response meta-analysis. Brain Network and Modulation 3(3):p 63-70, Jul–Sep 2024. | DOI: 10.4103/BNM.BNM_20_24

Kashyap, Komal, and Sushma Bhatnagar. "Evidence for the efficacy of scrambler therapy for cancer pain: a systematic review." Pain Physician 23.4 (2020): 349.

In a recent episode of the PainExam podcast, Dr. David Rosenblum delves into an intriguing study published in the journal Antioxidants, exploring the therapeutic potential of hydrogen-rich water (HRW) in alleviating chronic inflammatory pain and associated mood disorders in mice. The study, conducted by Santiago Coral-Pérez and colleagues from the Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica Sant Pau and Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, presents compelling evidence supporting the analgesic, antidepressant, and anxiolytic effects of HRW.

The study investigates the efficacy of HRW in treating nociceptive responses and affective disorders associated with chronic inflammatory pain. Using a mouse model induced by the subplantar injection of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA), the researchers evaluated the impact of HRW on several parameters:

1. Nociceptive Responses: Mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia.
2. Affective Disorders: Depressive-like behaviors (measured by Tail Suspension Test and Forced Swimming Test) and anxiety-like behaviors (assessed using Elevated Plus Maze and Open Field tests).
3. Biomarker Analysis: Levels of oxidative stress, inflammatory, and apoptotic markers in the paws and amygdala.

1. Analgesic Effects:

• Mechanical Allodynia and Thermal Hyperalgesia: The study found that both intraperitoneal and subplantar administration of HRW significantly reduced mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia in CFA-injected mice. Remarkably, the local (subplantar) administration showed greater effectiveness, achieving complete inhibition of nociceptive responses with just one day of treatment.

2. Antidepressant and Anxiolytic Effects:

• Depressive-like Behaviors: HRW treatment normalized the increased immobility times in both the Tail Suspension Test and Forced Swimming Test, indicating potent antidepressant properties.
• Anxiety-like Behaviors: HRW also reversed the anxiety-like behaviors in the Elevated Plus Maze and Open Field tests, showcasing its anxiolytic effects without impairing motor function.

3. Biochemical Pathways:

• The study highlighted the significant role of the Nrf2/HO-1-NQO1 pathway in mediating the analgesic effects of HRW. Inhibitors targeting this pathway reversed the pain-relieving actions of HRW, underscoring its pivotal role.
• Oxidative Stress and Inflammation: HRW treatment reduced the expression of oxidative (4-HNE), inflammatory (p-IKBα), and apoptotic (BAX) markers in both the paw and amygdala tissues, demonstrating its broad-spectrum protective effects.

Dr. Rosenblum emphasizes the potential of HRW as a novel therapeutic strategy for chronic inflammatory pain and its associated comorbidities. The study's findings suggest that HRW could offer a multifaceted approach, addressing both pain and mood disorders through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties.

The episode concludes with a discussion on the broader implications of these findings for pain management, particularly in conditions where chronic inflammatory pain is prevalent. Dr. Rosenblum highlights the need for further clinical trials to validate these promising preclinical results and explore the potential of HRW in human subjects.

For more detailed insights into this study, including potential applications and future research directions, tune into the PainExam podcast with Dr. David Rosenblum.

For more information go to:

https://molecularhydrogeninstitute.org/links-mhi/

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References

Coral-Pérez, S., Martínez-Martel, I., Martínez-Serrat, M., Batallé, G., Bai, X., Leite-Panissi, C. R., & Pol, O. (2022). Treatment with hydrogen-rich water improves the nociceptive and anxio-depressive-like behaviors associated with chronic inflammatory pain in mice. Antioxidants, 11(11), 2153.