BACKGROUND: Targeted application of high-frequency alternating current to induce reversible electrical nerve block (high-frequency nerve block [HFNB]) was recently approved for the treatment of chronic, intractable postamputation pain. Our case describes the use of HFNB for over 12 years.

CASE REPORT: In 2012, a 55-year-old woman with above-the-knee lower-limb amputation reporting episodic residual limb pain for 19 years enrolled in a pilot study of HFNB for chronic postamputation pain. During the study, the external waveform generator was replaced with a permanent implantable pulse generator, and the patient continues to use the device today. Data collected regularly at follow-up visits demonstrate sustained improvements in pain and functional outcomes and provide a long-term profile of HFNB treatment.

CONCLUSION: Our case describes long-term benefit of HFNB for chronic postamputation pain and provides detail regarding this novel therapy that cannot be derived from large studies evaluating effectiveness on a population level.

KEYWORDS: High-frequency nerve block, case report, chronic postamputation pain, residual limb pain