Why carry out this study?

Postherpetic neuralgia is the most frequent chronic complication of herpes zoster, and is manifested by neuropathic pain after the rash has healed. It is estimated that approximately 20% of herpes zoster patients develop postherpetic neuralgia.

Ultrasound-guided thoracic paravertebral single methylene blue injection can significantly reduce pain intensity in chronic pain patients.

We hypothesized that ultrasound-guided continuous methylene blue thoracic paravertebral infusion can provide safe, effective, and long-term analgesia for postherpetic neuralgia patients.

What was learned from the study?

Thoracic paravertebral infusion of methylene blue exerts a significant analgesic effect and reduces rescue medication requirements in postherpetic neuralgia patients. Thoracic paravertebral infusion of methylene blue improves quality of life in postherpetic neuralgia patients.

Use of an ultrasound-guided paravertebral catheter decreased the risk of adverse complications.

Ultrasound-guided continuous thoracic paravertebral infusion with methylene blue is a safe and effective therapy for postherpetic neuralgia.