Chronic expanding hematoma in the chest is a specific type of chronic empyema. Diseases that invade the chest wall and pleura are often incurable and cause intractable chest wall pain. Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) has proven to be a successful treatment for chronic refractory pain involving the peripheral nerves. PRF applied to the intercostal nerves under ultrasound guidance is easy to manipulate, has less risk of pneumothorax, and involves no exposure to radiation. Herein, we describe a case of ultrasound-guided PRF of the intercostal nerves in a patient suffering from intractable thoracic pain caused by chronic expanding hematoma.

Keywordschronic expanding hematoma, chronic pain, intercostal nerves, pulsed radiofrequency treatment, ultrasonography.