Hip Joint Denervation Using Radiofrequency Ablation for Chronic Hip Pain in a Young Female with Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia: A Case Report

Chronic hip pain in patients with autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is commonly attributed to avascular necrosis (AVN) secondary to prolonged steroid therapy and vascular compromise. However, bone marrow oedema and micro fractures without radiological evidence of AVN may also contribute to severe pain. We report a case of a 16-year-old female with AIHA presenting with persistent unilateral hip pain refractory to pharmacological management. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed bone marrow oedema with micro fractures of the femoral head but no signs of AVN. The patient underwent fluoroscopy- and ultrasound-guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of the articular branches of the femoral and obturator nerves for hip joint denervation. Significant symptomatic improvement was noted at four weeks? follow-up. This case highlights the role of minimally invasive interventional pain procedures in managing refractory hip pain in young patients with hematological disorders.