Predictors of Success After Intercostal Nerve Radiofrequency Treatment for Intercostal Neuralgia

Inclusion Criteria: * Age ≥ 18 years. * Diagnosis of intercostal neuralgia (post-traumatic, postherpetic, or idiopathic) with thoracic neuropathic pain for at least 1 month * Underwent ultrasound-guided intercostal nerve radiofrequency treatment (conventional radiofrequency ablation \[CRF\] or pulsed radiofrequency \[PRF\]) as part of routine clinical care * Documented baseline NRS-11 pain score prior to the procedure and follow-up NRS-11 data available through at least 6 months after treatment. Exclusion Criteria: * Thoracic pain attributable to malignancy-related causes (e.g., active malignant invasion, spinal metastasis) or an intrathoracic mass * History of thoracic surgery at the corresponding thoracic dermatome level (e.g., thoracotomy or VATS) * Prior radiofrequency treatment at the same intercostal nerve site * Receipt of other interventional treatments targeting the intercostal nerve during the study period (e.g., cryoablation or chemical neurolysis) * Insufficient follow-up data (less than 6 months of follow-up NRS-11 documentation).