1
|
Tran J, Lawson A, Agur A, Loh E. Parasagittal needle placement approach for lumbar medial branch denervation: a brief technical report. Reg Anesth Pain Med 2024; 49:609-614. [PMID: 38176741 DOI: 10.1136/rapm-2023-105152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Radiofrequency denervation of lumbar medial branches is a viable treatment option to manage chronic facetogenic low back pain. Traditionally, lumbar medial branch denervation involves placement of the electrode's active tip at a 20-degree angulation away from the parasagittal plane. However, more recent anatomical studies have provided evidence supporting the feasibility of an alternative parasagittal approach targeting the posterior half of the lateral neck of the superior articular process to capture the lumbar medial branches. Currently, there is a lack of clinical data on the effectiveness of the alternative parasagittal needle placement technique. Therefore, in this brief technical report, the parasagittal needle placement technique and the pain relief outcomes in four consecutive patients following treatment with the parasagittal approach are described.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John Tran
- Surgery (Division of Anatomy), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Arden Lawson
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anne Agur
- Surgery (Division of Anatomy), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Eldon Loh
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Qi LN, Sun Y, Shi YT, Yang JH, Yang YR, Qin XZ. Comparison of the Efficacy of Different Radiofrequency Techniques for the Treatment of Lumbar Facet Joint Pain: Combined with Anatomy. Curr Pain Headache Rep 2024; 28:699-708. [PMID: 38526650 DOI: 10.1007/s11916-024-01241-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Lumbar facet pain is generally considered to be one of the major causes of chronic low back pain. Each lumbar facet joint is innervated by the medial branch of the posterior spinal nerve from its own level and above. Radiofrequency (RF) of the medial branch of the posterior branch of the spinal nerve is an effective method for the treatment of lumbar facet pain. RF technology is diverse, including traditional radiofrequency (TRF), pulsed radiofrequency (PRF), cooled radiofrequency (CRF), low-temperature plasma radiofrequency ablation (CA), and other treatment methods. The purpose of this paper is to compare the efficacy of different radiofrequency techniques and to analyze the reasons for this in the context of anatomy. RECENT FINDINGS There have been studies confirming the differences in efficacy of different RF techniques. However, most of the studies only compared two RF techniques, not four techniques, TRF, CRF, PRF, and CA, and did not analyze the reasons for the differences in efficacy. This article reviews the differences in the efficacy of the above four RF techniques, clarifies that the differences are mainly due to the inability to precisely localize the medial branch of the posterior branch of the spinal nerve, analyzes the reasons for the inability to precisely localize the posterior branch of the spinal nerve in conjunction with anatomy, and proposes that the development of RF technology for lumbar facet pain requires more in-depth anatomical, imaging, and clinical studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ling Na Qi
- Medical College of Yanbian University, No. 977 Gong Yuan Road, Yanji, Jilin Province, China
| | - Ye Sun
- Medical College of Yanbian University, No. 977 Gong Yuan Road, Yanji, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yu Tong Shi
- Medical College of Yanbian University, No. 977 Gong Yuan Road, Yanji, Jilin Province, China
| | - Jing Han Yang
- Medical College of Yanbian University, No. 977 Gong Yuan Road, Yanji, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yi Ran Yang
- Medical College of Yanbian University, No. 977 Gong Yuan Road, Yanji, Jilin Province, China
| | - Xiang Zheng Qin
- Department of Anatomy, Medical College of Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Naidu P, Paolucci Muran-Iwaidja O, Luta Kaurareg R, Hughes Wagadagam JT. Optimisation during transition to dialysis commencement. Med J Aust 2024; 221:18-24. [PMID: 38946647 DOI: 10.5694/mja2.52347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jaquelyne T Hughes Wagadagam
- Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, NT
- Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Darwin, NT
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Liu Z, Chen J, Fang D, Xu Y, Zhou X, Zheng Z, Zhang Z, Fan C, Luo S, Liu Z, Li Q, Zhao Q. Anatomical Observation and Clinical Significance of the Medial Branch of the Lumbar Dorsal Rami. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2024; 49:E164-E172. [PMID: 38420729 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0000000000004975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Anatomical study. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to elaborate on the anatomical characteristics of the medial branch of the lumbar dorsal rami and to discuss its possible clinical significance. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Radiofrequency ablation targeting the medial branch of the lumbar dorsal rami has been increasingly used in the clinical management of facetogenic low back pain (FLBP). Nonetheless, attention is also being given to complications such as atrophy of the lumbar soft tissues and muscles. Therefore, a more detailed understanding of the innervation pattern on the facet joint may improve the precision of nerve ablation therapy for FLBP. METHODS An anatomical study of eight human specimens was carried out. The anatomic characteristics of the medial branch were observed and recorded. RESULTS The medial branch originates from the lumbar dorsal rami, running close to the root of the posterolateral side of the superior articular process of the inferior cone. When passed through the mamillo-accessory ligament, it turns direction to the medial and caudal side, running in the multifidus muscle. In our study, each medial branch sent out two to five branches along the way. All the medial branches in L1-L4 gave off one to two small branches when crossing the facet joint and innervated the joint of the lower segment. Nineteen medial branches (23.75%) gave off recurrent branches to innervate the joint at the upper segment. CONCLUSION The anatomical features of the medial branch remain similar in each lumbar segment. There are two types of joint branches, including the articular fibers that emanate from the medial branch as it runs along the medial border of the facet joint and the recurrent branch from the medial branch that innervates the upper facet joint. Moreover, an anastomotic branch was found in the medial branches between different segments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zexian Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Junjie Chen
- The Spine Department, Orthopaedic Center, The Affiliated Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Duopei Fang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yejie Xu
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xinying Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhiyang Zheng
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhenfeng Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Chaohui Fan
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shiwen Luo
- Department of Anatomy, School of the Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zezheng Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qingchu Li
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qinghao Zhao
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Du R, Gao J, Wang B, Zhang J, Meng M, Wang J, Qu W, Li Z. Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation and endoscopic neurotomy for lumbar facet joint syndrome: are they good enough? EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2024; 33:463-473. [PMID: 38141106 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-023-08078-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Lumbar facet joint (LFJ) syndrome is one of the common causes of low back pain (LBP). There are different views on percutaneous and endoscopic radiofrequency. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to explore the therapeutic effect of radiofrequency ablation on LBP originating from LFJ and compare the therapeutic effect of percutaneous radiofrequency ablation and endoscopic neurotomy. METHODS We included randomized controlled trials which compared the efficiency of percutaneous radiofrequency ablation and conservative treatment (sham procedures, facet joint injection, physiotherapy, exercise, or oral medication) or compared the efficiency of percutaneous radiofrequency ablation and endoscopic neurotomy for LFJ syndrome. We searched in PubMed and Web of Science from inception to March 27, 2023. Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4 software. RESULTS A total of 11 randomized controlled trials were included. Among them, nine studies were used for evaluating efficiency of percutaneous radiofrequency ablation, and two studies were used for evaluating efficiency of endoscopic neurotomy. Pooled data from two studies reporting outcomes at 1 year did not show a benefit from facet joint denervation by comparing the percutaneous radiofrequency ablation and conservative treatment (standardized mean difference (SMD) = -0.87, 95% confidence interval (CI) [-2.10, 0.37], P = 0.17). There was no significant difference between percutaneous radiofrequency ablation and endoscopic neurotomy at 1-month follow-up (mean difference (MD) = -0.13, 95%CI [-0.18, -0.44], P = 0.41). At 12-month follow-up the pain relief in the endoscopic neurotomy was significantly better than that in the percutaneous radiofrequency ablation group (MD = 1.98, 95%CI [1.60, 2.36], P < 0 .0001). CONCLUSION The LBP was significantly relieved shortly after percutaneous radiofrequency ablation. Compared with percutaneous radiofrequency ablation, endoscopic neurotomy seems to have a longer effect. A longer follow-up period is needed to confirm its effectiveness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruihuan Du
- Department of Orthopedics, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No. 5 Longbin Road, Development Zone, Dalian, 116011, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Gao
- Department of Endocrinology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No. 5 Longbin Road, Development Zone, Dalian, 116011, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No. 5 Longbin Road, Development Zone, Dalian, 116011, People's Republic of China
| | - Meng Meng
- Department of Orthopedics, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No. 5 Longbin Road, Development Zone, Dalian, 116011, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingzuo Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No. 5 Longbin Road, Development Zone, Dalian, 116011, People's Republic of China
| | - Wentao Qu
- Department of Orthopedics, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No. 5 Longbin Road, Development Zone, Dalian, 116011, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhonghai Li
- Department of Orthopedics, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No. 5 Longbin Road, Development Zone, Dalian, 116011, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Mechanism for Repair and Remodeling of Orthopedic Diseases, Dalian, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Tran J, Campisi ES, Agur AMR, Loh E. Quantification of needle angles for lumbar medial branch denervation targeting the posterior half of the superior articular process: an osteological study. PAIN MEDICINE (MALDEN, MASS.) 2024; 25:13-19. [PMID: 37578435 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnad105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lumbar medial branch radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a common intervention to manage chronic axial low back pain originating from the facet joints. A more parasagittal approach targeting the posterior half of the lateral neck of superior articular process (SAP) was previously proposed. However, specific needle angles to achieve parallel placement at this target site have not been investigated. OBJECTIVE To quantify and compare the needle angles, on posterior and lateral views, to achieve parallel placement of electrodes along the medial branch at the posterior half of the lateral neck of SAP at each lumbar vertebral level (L1-L5) and sacrum. DESIGN Osteological Study. METHODS Twelve disarticulated lumbosacral spines (n = 72 individual bones) were used in this study. Needles were placed along the periosteum of the posterior half of the lateral neck of SAP, bilaterally and photographed. Mean needle angles for each vertebral level (L1-L5) and sacrum were quantified, and statistical differences were analyzed. RESULTS The posterior view provided the degrees of lateral displacement from the parasagittal plane (abduction angle), while the lateral view provided the degrees of declination (cranial-to-caudal angle) of the needle. Mean needle angles at each level varied, ranging from 5.63 ± 5.76° to 14.50 ± 14.24° (abduction angle, posterior view) and 40.17 ± 7.32° to 64.10 ± 9.73° (cranial-to-caudal angle, lateral view). In posterior view, a < 10-degree needle angle interval was most frequently identified (57.0% of needle placements). In lateral view, the 40-50-degree (L1-L2), 50-60-degree (L3-L5), and 60-70-degree (sacrum) needle angle intervals occurred most frequently (54.2%, 50.0%, and 41.7% of needle placements, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Targeting the posterior half of the lateral neck of SAP required <10-degree angulation from parasagittal plane in majority of cases. However, variability of needle angles suggests a standard "one-size-fits-all" approach may not be the optimal technique.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John Tran
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Western University, London, ON N6C 0A7, Canada
- Parkwood Institute Research, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 0A7, Canada
| | - Emma S Campisi
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Anne M R Agur
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Eldon Loh
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Western University, London, ON N6C 0A7, Canada
- Parkwood Institute Research, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 0A7, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Van den Heuvel SAS, Cohen SPC, de Andrès Ares J, Van Boxem K, Kallewaard JW, Van Zundert J. 3. Pain originating from the lumbar facet joints. Pain Pract 2024; 24:160-176. [PMID: 37640913 DOI: 10.1111/papr.13287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pain originating from the lumbar facets can be defined as pain that arises from the innervated structures comprising the joint: the subchondral bone, synovium, synovial folds, and joint capsule. Reported prevalence rates range from 4.8% to over 50% among patients with mechanical low back pain, with diagnosis heavily dependent on the criteria employed. In well-designed studies, the prevalence is generally between 10% and 20%, increasing with age. METHODS The literature on the diagnosis and treatment of lumbar facet joint pain was retrieved and summarized. RESULTS There are no pathognomic signs or symptoms of pain originating from the lumbar facet joints. The most common reported symptom is uni- or bilateral (in more advanced cases) axial low back pain, which often radiates into the upper legs in a non-dermatomal distribution. Most patients report an aching type of pain exacerbated by activity, sometimes with morning stiffness. The diagnostic value of abnormal radiologic findings is poor owing to the low specificity. SPECT can accurately identify joint inflammation and has a predictive value for diagnostic lumbar facet injections. After "red flags" are ruled out, conservatives should be considered. In those unresponsive to conservative therapy with symptoms and physical examination suggesting lumbar facet joint pain, a diagnostic/prognostic medial branch block can be performed which remains the most reliable way to select patients for radiofrequency ablation. CONCLUSIONS Well-selected individuals with chronic low back originating from the facet joints may benefit from lumbar medial branch radiofrequency ablation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra A S Van den Heuvel
- Anesthesiology, Pain and Palliative Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Steven P C Cohen
- Anesthesiology, Pain Medicine Division, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Koen Van Boxem
- Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Multidisciplinary Pain Center, Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg, Genk, Belgium
- Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Willem Kallewaard
- Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Rijnstate Ziekenhuis, Velp, The Netherlands
- Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Van Zundert
- Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Multidisciplinary Pain Center, Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg, Genk, Belgium
- Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
McCormick ZL, Conger A, Kendall R, Wagner G, Henrie AM, Littell M, Sperry BP, Petersen R, Cooper AN, Teramoto M, Burnham TR. A pragmatic randomized prospective trial of cooled radiofrequency ablation of the medial branch nerves versus facet joint injection of corticosteroid for the treatment of lumbar facet syndrome: 12 month outcomes. PAIN MEDICINE (MALDEN, MASS.) 2023; 24:1318-1331. [PMID: 37578437 PMCID: PMC10690866 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnad107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lumbar medial branch radiofrequency ablation (LRFA) and intraarticular facet steroid injections (FJI) are commonly performed for recalcitrant facet joint-mediated pain. However, no study has compared clinical outcomes of the two treatments in patients selected using dual medial branch blocks (MBBs) with an 80% relief threshold. OBJECTIVE Compare the effectiveness of cooled LRFA (C-LRFA) to FIJ as assessed by pain and functional improvements. DESIGN Prospective randomized comparative trial. METHODS Patients with dual MBB-confirmed facet joint-mediated pain were randomized to receive C-LRFA or FIJ. Outcomes were assessed at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. The primary outcome was ≥50% improvement in numerical pain rating scale (NPRS) score at 3 months. Secondary outcomes included ≥30% Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) improvement and Patient Global Impression of Chance (PGIC) ≥6 points, among others. Data were analyzed using contingency tables and mixed-effects logistic regression models. RESULTS Of 1128 patients screened, 32 met eligibility criteria, were randomized, and received their allocated study treatment. In total, 20 (62.5%) and 12 (37.5%) participants received C-LRFA and FIJ, respectively. In the C-LRFA group, 70% (95% CI 48-85), 55% (95% CI 34-74), and 45% (95% CI 26-66) of participants met the NPRS responder definition, compared to 25% (95%CI 9-53), 25% (95% CI 9-53), and 17% (95% CI 5-45) in the FJI group at 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively (P = .014 at 3 months). The PGIC responder proportion was higher in the C-LRFA compared to FJI group at 3 and 6 months (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS C-LRFA demonstrated superior success rates compared to FJI across pain and functional outcome domains. TRIAL REGISTRATION DETAILS ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03614793); August 3, 2018.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zachary L McCormick
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States
| | - Aaron Conger
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States
| | - Richard Kendall
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States
| | - Graham Wagner
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States
| | - A Michael Henrie
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States
| | - Madelaine Littell
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States
| | - Beau P Sperry
- University of California Los Angeles School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
| | - Russel Petersen
- Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dothan, AL, United States
| | - Amanda N Cooper
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States
| | - Masaru Teramoto
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States
| | - Taylor R Burnham
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Tran J, Campisi ES, Agur AMR, Loh E. Quantification of Needle Angles for Traditional Lumbar Medial Branch Radiofrequency Ablation: An Osteological Study. PAIN MEDICINE (MALDEN, MASS.) 2023; 24:488-495. [PMID: 36308462 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnac160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical outcomes following lumbar medial branch radiofrequency ablation (RFA) have been inconsistent. One possible reason is less-than-optimal placement of the electrode along the medial branch at the lateral neck of superior articular process (SAP). Needle angles that define optimal placement (i.e., parallel to the medial branch) may be helpful for consistent technical performance of RFA. Despite its importance, there is a lack of anatomical studies that quantify RFA needle placement angles. OBJECTIVE To quantify and compare needle angles to achieve parallel placement along the medial branch as it courses on the middle two-quarters of the lateral neck of the SAP at the L1-L5 vertebrae. DESIGN Osteological Study. METHODS Ten lumbar vertebral columns were used in this study. Needles were placed along the periosteum of the middle two-quarters of the lateral neck of SAP. Mean needle angles for L1-L5 were quantified and compared using posterior (n = 100) and lateral (n = 100) photographs. RESULTS Mean needle angles varied ranging from 29.29 ± 17.82° to 47.22 ± 16.27° lateral to the parasagittal plane (posterior view) and 33.53 ± 10.23° to 49.19 ± 10.69° caudal to the superior vertebral endplate (lateral view). Significant differences in mean angles were found between: L1/L3 (P = .008), L1/L4 (P = .003), and L1/L5 (P = .040) in the posterior view and L1/L3 (P = .042), L1/L4 (P < .001), L1/L5 (P < .001), L2/L4 (P = .004), and L2/L5 (P = .004) in lateral view. CONCLUSIONS Variability of needle angles suggest a standard "one-size-fits-all" approach may not be the optimal technique. Future research is necessary to determine optimal patient-specific needle angles from a more detailed and granular analysis of fluoroscopic landmarks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John Tran
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Parkwood Institute Research, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Emma S Campisi
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anne M R Agur
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Eldon Loh
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Parkwood Institute Research, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Reddy AT, Goyal N, Cascio M, Leal J, Singh K. Abnormal Paresthesias Associated With Radiofrequency Ablation of Lumbar Medial Branch Nerves: A Case Report. Cureus 2023; 15:e35176. [PMID: 36960266 PMCID: PMC10030159 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.35176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an effective treatment that has occasionally been associated with transient paresthesias. This case report details an unusual presentation of paresthesias after lumbar medial branch RFA. A 48-year-old female patient reported pain, numbness, and swelling on the left buttock and posterolateral thigh. A physical exam revealed allodynia over the left posterolateral thigh without neurologic deficits two weeks after RFA of the left-sided lumbar medial branch nerves innervating the L4-L5 and L5-S1 facet joints. Shortly after the RFA of the contralateral targets, the patient complained of numbness of the right-sided lower back extending laterally from the right hip to the right knee. Imaging confirmed the appropriate placement of all needles in both procedures. Both instances of paresthesias resolved over time. This case report aims to demonstrate that RFA can be associated with unusual paresthesias and that these adverse effects do not warrant excessive workup.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aniroodh T Reddy
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Nassau University Medical Center, East Meadow, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Toledo College of Medicine & Life Sciences, Toledo, USA
| | - Nitin Goyal
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Toledo College of Medicine & Life Sciences, Toledo, USA
| | - Matthew Cascio
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Nassau University Medical Center, East Meadow, USA
| | - Jack Leal
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Nassau University Medical Center, East Meadow, USA
| | - Kanwardeep Singh
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Nassau University Medical Center, East Meadow, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Turtle J, Miller S, Yang A, Hurley RW, Spina N, McCormick ZL. Considerations for Lumbar Medial Branch Nerve Radiofrequency at Spinal Motion Segments Adjacent to a Fusion Construct. PAIN MEDICINE 2023; 24:165-170. [PMID: 35946682 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnac118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Instrumented lumbar spinal fusion is common and results in biomechanical changes at adjacent spinal segments that increase facet load bearing. This can cause facet-mediated pain at levels adjacent to the surgical construct. Medial branch nerve radiofrequency ablation (RFA) exists as a treatment for some cases. It is important to acknowledge that the approach and instrumentation used during some specific lumbar fusion approaches will disrupt the medial branch nerve(s). Thus, the proceduralist must consider the fusion approach when determining which medial branch nerves are necessary to anesthetize for diagnosis and then to potentially target with RFA. This article discusses the relevant technical considerations for preparing for RFA to denervate lumbosacral facet joints adjacent to fusion constructs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joel Turtle
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Scott Miller
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Vanderbilt University of Utah School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Aaron Yang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Vanderbilt University of Utah School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Robert W Hurley
- Department of Anesthesiology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Nicholas Spina
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Zachary L McCormick
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
El-Hassan R, Michalik A, Snyder J, Laplante BL, Everett C, Patel R. First-Time Lumbar Medial Branch Radiofrequency Ablation: Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System as a Metric of Outcome. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2022; 103:2311-2315. [PMID: 35429466 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2022.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the ability of Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) to capture the therapeutic effect of first-time medial branch radiofrequency ablation (RFA). DESIGN Before-after trial. SETTING Single academic spine center. PARTICIPANTS Patients who underwent first-time medial branch RFA for lumbar facet joint pain identified by dual comparative medial branch block with ≥80% pain relief between January 1, 2015 and September 1, 2019 were identified using procedural billing codes. Charts were reviewed manually to confirm accuracy and strict adherence to the 80% pain relief threshold for each medial branch block. Thirty-nine patients met the criteria and were included in this study (N=39). INTERVENTIONS Medial branch RFA. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES PROMIS score domains of Depression, Pain Interference, and Physical Function collected pre- and post RFA were compared. Pretreatment scores were within 6 weeks prior to the first medial branch block. Posttreatment scores were between 5 weeks and 6 months after RFA. Paired-sample t test analyses were used to calculate responsiveness to treatment, with significance assigned as P<.05 prior to acquiring data. Effect size was calculated using Cohen's d. RESULTS PROMIS domains of Pain Interference and Physical Function demonstrated a statistically significant improvement (P=.004 and P=.017, respectively). The PROMIS domain of Depression did not demonstrate a statistically significant change (P=.12). The effect size was medium (d=-0.43) for Pain Interference, small/medium (d=0.31) for Physical Function, and small (d=-0.12) for Depression. CONCLUSIONS Medial branch RFA as a treatment for lumbar facet syndrome is associated with a statistical improvement in PROMIS domains of Physical Function and Pain Interference.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ramzi El-Hassan
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY.
| | - Adam Michalik
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
| | - James Snyder
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
| | - Ben L Laplante
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
| | - Clifford Everett
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
| | - Rajeev Patel
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Du R, Xu G, Bai X, Li Z. Facet Joint Syndrome: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment. J Pain Res 2022; 15:3689-3710. [PMID: 36474960 PMCID: PMC9719706 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s389602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Facet joint osteoarthritis (OA) is the most frequent form of facet joint syndrome. Medical history, referred pain patterns, physical examination, and diagnostic imaging studies (standard radiographs, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography and single-photon emission computed tomography) may suggest but not confirm lumbar facet joint (LFJ) syndrome as a source of low back pain (LBP). However, the diagnosis and treatment of facet joint syndrome is still controversial and needs further study. It is widely acknowledged that block with local anesthetic is perhaps the most effective method to establish a diagnosis of pain from LFJ. Particularly, there are different rates of success among different populations selected for diagnostic block with various positive criteria. Currently, in addition to conservative treatments for pain such as painkillers, functional exercises, and massage, there are many other methods, including block, denervation of the nerves that innervate the joints by radiofrequency, freezing or endoscopy, and injections. Due to the limited duration of pain relief from neurolysis of medial branch, many scholars have recently turned their targets to dorsal roots and LFJ capsules. Therefore, we reviewed the latest research progress of facet joint syndrome from diagnosis to treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruihuan Du
- Department of Orthopedics, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, People’s Republic of China
| | - Gang Xu
- Department of Orthopedics, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Mechanism for Repair and Remodeling of Orthopedic Diseases, Dalian, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xujue Bai
- Department of Orthopedics, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhonghai Li
- Department of Orthopedics, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Mechanism for Repair and Remodeling of Orthopedic Diseases, Dalian, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Le VT, Do PT, Nguyen AM, Nguyen Dao LT. Thermal Radiofrequency Ablation Combined with Corticosteroid Injection in Management of Lumbar Facet Joint Pain: A Single-Center Study in Vietnam. World Neurosurg 2022; 166:237-243.e1. [PMID: 35953043 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2022.07.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We sought to evaluate the effectiveness of thermal radiofrequency ablation combined with corticosteroid injection for medial branch block in the management of chronic low back pain, which originates from lumbar facet joint (LFJ) pain. METHODS A prospective observational study of 82 patients with chronic LFJ pain undergoing thermal radiofrequency ablation combined with corticosteroid injection was conducted. Primary outcomes included pain relief and functional recovery, measured by the visual analog scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index, respectively. Secondary outcome was the time of recurrent low back pain at the same spinal segment after treatment. Adverse events were also recorded. RESULTS Mean age is 55.7 ± 15.2 years old, and duration of LFJ pain was 18.2 ± 9.5 months. Median VAS at baseline was 7.0 (7.0-9.0) for all ages. After intervention, VAS and Oswestry Disability Index improved significantly (P < 0.001). Pain relief lasted for 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 12 months, and 12-24 months' follow-up. During this period, only 5 patients required another radiofrequency neurotomy procedure (6.1%). No complications occurred in the study group. CONCLUSIONS Thermal radiofrequency ablation combined with corticosteroid injection should be a potential method of choice for its effectiveness, long-lasting effect, and safety in the management of LFJ pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Viet-Thang Le
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Phuoc Trong Do
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Anh Minh Nguyen
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Park D, Chang MC. The mechanism of action of pulsed radiofrequency in reducing pain: a narrative review. JOURNAL OF YEUNGNAM MEDICAL SCIENCE 2022; 39:200-205. [PMID: 35385898 PMCID: PMC9273139 DOI: 10.12701/jyms.2022.00101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Pain from nervous or musculoskeletal disorders is one of the most common complaints in clinical practice. Corticosteroids have a high pain-reducing effect, and their injection is generally used to control various types of pain. However, they have various adverse effects including flushing, hyperglycemia, allergic reactions, menstrual changes, immunosuppression, and adrenal suppression. Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) is known to have a pain-reducing effect similar to that of corticosteroid injection, with nearly no major side effects. Therefore, it has been widely used to treat various types of pain, such as neuropathic, joint, discogenic, and muscle pain. In the current review, we outlined the pain-reducing mechanisms of PRF by reviewing previous studies. When PRF was first introduced, it was supposed to reduce pain by long-term depression of pain signaling from the peripheral nerve to the central nervous system. In addition, deactivation of microglia at the level of the spinal dorsal horn, reduction of proinflammatory cytokines, increased endogenous opioid precursor messenger ribonucleic acid, enhancement of noradrenergic and serotonergic descending pain inhibitory pathways, suppression of excitation of C-afferent fibers, and microscopic damage of nociceptive C- and A-delta fibers have been found to contribute to pain reduction after PRF application. However, the pain-reducing mechanism of PRF has not been clearly and definitely elucidated. Further studies are warranted to clarify the pain-reducing mechanism of PRF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Donghwi Park
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Min Cheol Chang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
- Corresponding Author: Min Cheol Chang, MD Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, 170 Hyeonchung-ro, Nam-gu, Daegu 42415, Korea Tel: +82-53-620-4682 • Fax: +0504-231-8694 • E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Conger A, Smuck M, Truumees E, Lotz JC, DePalma MJ, McCormick ZL. Vertebrogenic Pain: A Paradigm Shift in Diagnosis and Treatment of Axial Low Back Pain. PAIN MEDICINE 2022; 23:S63-S71. [PMID: 35856329 PMCID: PMC9297155 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnac081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Conger
- Correspondence to: Aaron Conger, DO, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah, 590 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA. Tel: 801-587-5458; Fax: 801-587-7111; E-mail:
| | - Matthew Smuck
- Department of Orthopaedics, Stanford University, Redwood City, CA, USA
| | - Eeric Truumees
- The University of Texas Dell Medical School, Ascension Texas Spine and Scoliosis, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Jeffrey C Lotz
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Zachary L McCormick
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Tran J, Peng P, Loh E. Anatomical study of the medial branches of the lumbar dorsal rami: implications for image-guided intervention. Reg Anesth Pain Med 2022; 47:rapm-2022-103653. [PMID: 35589133 DOI: 10.1136/rapm-2022-103653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fluoroscopic-guided radiofrequency ablation of the lumbar medial branches is commonly performed to manage chronic low back pain originating from the facet joints. A detailed understanding of the course of medial branches in relation to bony and soft tissue landmarks is paramount to optimizing lumbar denervation procedures, particularly parallel placement of the radiofrequency electrode. The objectives of this study were to investigate the relationship of medial branches to anatomical landmarks and discuss the implications for lumbar denervation. METHODS Ten cadaveric specimens were meticulously dissected. The origin, course, and relationship of lumbar medial branches to bony and soft tissue landmarks were documented. RESULTS The medial branches followed the lateral neck of superior articular process deep to the intertransversarii mediales muscle at each lumbar vertebral level. In all specimens, the medial branches coursed laterally on the anterior half of the neck and transitioned from parasagittal-to-medial on the posterior half to reach the mamillo-accessory notch. The mamillo-accessory ligament was found to not occlude the nerve on the posterior quarter of the lateral neck but rather at the mamillo-accessory notch located at the posterior margin of the superior articular process. DISCUSSION A detailed understanding of the relationship of medial branches to anatomical landmarks is essential to optimizing needle placement for lumbar denervation procedures. The current study suggests that a parasagittal placement, with increased cranial-to-caudal angulation of the electrode, may improve parallel tip alignment with the targeted medial branch and represent a potential alternative to the traditional technique.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John Tran
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Parkwood Institute Research, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Philip Peng
- Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Eldon Loh
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Parkwood Institute Research, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
McGregor H, Weise L, Brunson C, Struycken L, Woodhead G, Celdran D. Percutaneous Radiofrequency Ablation to Occlude the Thoracic Duct: Preclinical Studies in Swine for a Potential Alternative to Embolization. J Vasc Interv Radiol 2022; 33:1192-1198. [PMID: 35595218 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvir.2022.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the feasibility of percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) to occlude the thoracic duct (TD) in a swine model with imaging and histologic correlation. MATERIALS AND METHODS Six swine underwent TD RFA. Two terminal (4 hours; 1 open, 1 percutaneous) and four survival (30 days; all percutaneous) studies were performed. Two 20-gauge needles were placed adjacent to the TD under direct visualization after right thoracotomy or under fluoroscopic guidance using a percutaneous transabdominal approach after intranodal lymphangiography. Radiofrequency electrodes were advanced through the needles and ablation was performed at 90 degrees Celsius for 90 seconds. Lymphangiography was performed and the TD and adjacent structures were resected and examined microscopically at the end of each study period. RESULTS Four of six subjects survived the planned study period and underwent follow up lymphangiography. Two subjects in the survival group were euthanized early; 1 after developing an acute chylothorax and 1 due to gastric volvulus 14 days after ablation. Occlusion of the targeted TD segment was noted on lymphangiography in 3 of 4 remaining subjects (2 acute, 1 survival). Histology 4 hours after RFA demonstrated necrosis of the TD wall and hemorrhage within the lumen. Histology at 14 and 30 days revealed fibrosis with hemosiderin laden macrophages replacing the ablated TD. Collagen degeneration within the aortic wall involving a maximum of 60% thickness was noted in 5/6 subjects. CONCLUSION Percutaneous RFA can achieve short-segment TD occlusion. Further study is needed to improve safety and demonstrate clinical efficacy in treating TD leaks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hugh McGregor
- Department of Radiology, University of Washington, 1959 NE Pacific St 2nd floor, Seattle, WA 98195
| | - Lorela Weise
- Department of Medical Imaging, University of Arizona, 1501 N. Campbell Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85724
| | - Christopher Brunson
- Department of Medical Imaging, University of Arizona, 1501 N. Campbell Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85724
| | - Lucas Struycken
- Department of Medical Imaging, University of Arizona, 1501 N. Campbell Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85724
| | - Gregory Woodhead
- Department of Medical Imaging, University of Arizona, 1501 N. Campbell Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85724
| | - Diego Celdran
- Department of Medical Imaging, University of Arizona, 1501 N. Campbell Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85724
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Gill B, Cheney C, Clements N, Przybsyz AG, McCormick ZL, Conger A. Radiofrequency Ablation for Zygapophyseal Joint Pain. Phys Med Rehabil Clin N Am 2022; 33:233-249. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pmr.2022.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
20
|
Burnham TR, Smith A, McCormick ZL, Teramoto M, Burnham R. Evaluation of an Ultrasound-Assisted Longitudinal Axis Lateral Crest Approach to Radiofrequency Ablation of the Sacroiliac Joint. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2022; 101:26-31. [PMID: 34915543 DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000001733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness and procedural characteristics of a novel, ultrasound/fluoroscopically guided technique (longitudinal axis sacroiliac joint radiofrequency ablation) for sacroiliac joint denervation. DESIGN A single-arm cohort with historical cohort comparison was used in this study. METHODS Thirty-seven participants underwent longitudinal axis sacroiliac joint radiofrequency ablation after 50% or more pain reduction after diagnostic dual-block criterion. Outcomes were the proportion of participants with 50% or more pain reduction and mean Pain Disability Quality of Life Questionnaire change. Subanalysis included longitudinal axis sacroiliac joint radiofrequency ablation procedural and fluoroscopy times compared with participants previously treated with palisade radiofrequency ablation technique. RESULTS Primary outcome worst case analysis demonstrated a responder rate of 64.9% (95% confidence interval = 48.8%-78.2%) and 59.5% (95% confidence interval = 43.5%-73.7%) at 3 and 6 mos. There was significant decrease in mean Pain Disability Quality of Life Questionnaire at 3 (45.6 ± 9.5 to 21.4 ± 16.0, P < 0.001) and 6 mos (45.6 ± 9.5 to 23.0 ± 16.5, P < 0.001). Longitudinal axis sacroiliac joint radiofrequency ablation required more procedure time than the palisade technique (38.2 ± 7.9 vs. 32.1 ± 6.9 mins, P = 0.031) but less fluoroscopy time (35.0 ± 11.8 vs. 57.6 ± 16.8 secs, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Longitudinal axis sacroiliac joint radiofrequency ablation resulted in improvement in pain, disability, and quality of life at 3 and 6 mos. Compared with the palisade technique, longitudinal axis sacroiliac joint radiofrequency ablation required greater procedure time but less fluoroscopy time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taylor Robert Burnham
- From the Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah (TRB, ZLM, MT); Vivo Cura Health, Calgary, Alberta, Canada (AS, RB); Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada (AS); Central Alberta Pain and Rehabilitation Institute, Lacombe, Alberta, Canada (RB); and Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada (RB)
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Dey S, Das G, Surange P, Agarwal A, Kothari K, Natarajan K, Mehta P, Sharma G, Siddhaye U, Jain N, Mohan VK. Radiofrequency ablation in chronic pain syndromes: An evidence- and consensus-based indian society for the study of pain guidelines, 2022. INDIAN JOURNAL OF PAIN 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/ijpn.ijpn_123_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
|
22
|
Boody BS, Sperry BP, Harper K, Macadaeg K, McCormick ZL. OUP accepted manuscript. PAIN MEDICINE 2022; 23:S2-S13. [PMID: 35856330 PMCID: PMC9297161 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnac050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Objective Multiple studies have demonstrated the safety and effectiveness of basivertebral nerve radiofrequency ablation (BVN RFA) for improving low back pain related to the vertebral endplate. However, the influence of patient demographic and clinical characteristics on treatment outcome is unknown. Design Pooled cohort study of three clinical trials of patients with vertebral endplate pain identified by Type 1 and/or Type 2 Modic changes and a correlating presentation of anterior spinal element pain. Setting Thirty-three global study centers. Subjects Patients (n = 296) successfully treated with BVN RFA. Methods Participant demographic and clinical characteristics were analyzed with stepwise logistic regression to identify predictors of treatment success. Three definitions of treatment success were defined: 1) ≥50% visual analog scale pain improvement, 2) ≥15-point Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) improvement, and 3) ≥50% visual analog scale or ≥15-point ODI improvement from baseline. Results Low back pain of ≥5 years’ duration and higher ODI scores at baseline increased the odds of treatment success, whereas baseline opioid use and higher Beck Depression Inventory scores reduced these odds. However, the three regression models demonstrated receiver-operating characteristics of 62–70% areas under the curve, and thus, limited predictive capacity. Conclusions This analysis identified no demographic or clinical characteristic that meaningfully increased or reduced the odds of treatment success from BVN RFA. On the basis of these findings and the high response rates from the three analyzed trials, we recommend the use of objective imaging biomarkers (Type 1 and/or 2 Modic changes) and a correlating presentation of anterior spinal element pain to determine optimal candidacy for BVN RFA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Beau P Sperry
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | | | | | - Zachary L McCormick
- Correspondence to: Zachary L. McCormick, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah, 590 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA. Fax: 801 581 8000; E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Lee DW, Pritzlaff S, Jung MJ, Ghosh P, Hagedorn JM, Tate J, Scarfo K, Strand N, Chakravarthy K, Sayed D, Deer TR, Amirdelfan K. Latest Evidence-Based Application for Radiofrequency Neurotomy (LEARN): Best Practice Guidelines from the American Society of Pain and Neuroscience (ASPN). J Pain Res 2021; 14:2807-2831. [PMID: 34526815 PMCID: PMC8436449 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s325665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Radiofrequency neurotomy (RFN), also known as radiofrequency ablation (RFA), is a common interventional procedure used to treat pain from an innervated structure. RFN has historically been used to treat chronic facet-joint mediated pain. The use of RFN has more recently expanded beyond facet-joint mediated pain to peripherally innervated targets. In addition, there has also been the emergence of different radiofrequency modalities, including pulsed and cooled RFN. The use of RFN has been particularly important where conservative and/or surgical measures have failed to provide pain relief. With the emergence of this therapeutic option and its novel applications, the American Society of Pain and Neuroscience (ASPN) identified the need for formal evidence-based guidance. The authors formed a multidisciplinary work group tasked to examine the latest evidence-based medicine for the various applications of RFN, including cervical, thoracic, lumbar spine; posterior sacroiliac joint pain; hip and knee joints; and occipital neuralgia. Best practice guidelines, evidence and consensus grading were provided for each anatomical target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David W Lee
- Fullerton Orthopedic Surgery Medical Group, Fullerton, CA, 92831, USA
| | - Scott Pritzlaff
- University of California, Davis.,Division of Pain Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Michael J Jung
- University of California, Davis.,Division of Pain Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | | | - Jonathan M Hagedorn
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Division of Pain Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Jordan Tate
- Alliance Spine and Pain Centers, Canton, GA, USA
| | - Keith Scarfo
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University Department of Neurosurgery - Norman Prince Spine Institute, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Natalie Strand
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Division of Pain Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | | | - Dawood Sayed
- University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Timothy R Deer
- The Spine and Nerve Center of the Virginias, Inc., Charleston, WV, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Hughey S, Cole J, Booth G, Moore J, McDowell B, DeYoung H, Hosig A, Moran T, Stedje-Larsen E. Predicting Treatment Success with Facet Syndrome: An Algorithm to Predict Lumbar Radiofrequency Ablation Responders in a Military Population. PAIN MEDICINE 2021; 22:266-272. [PMID: 33166391 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnaa381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of the medial branch nerve is a commonly performed procedure for patients with facet syndrome. RFA has previously been demonstrated to provide long-term functional improvement in approximately 50% of patients, including those who had significant pain relief after diagnostic medial branch block. We sought to identify factors associated with success of RFA for facet pain. DESIGN Active-duty military patients who underwent lumbar RFA (L3, L4, and L5 levels) over a 3-year period were analyzed. Defense and Veterans Pain Rating Scale (DVPRS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores were assessed the day of procedure and at the 2-month and 6-month follow-up. These data were analyzed to identify associations between patient demographics, pain, and functional status and patients' improvement after RFA, with a primary outcome of ODI improvement and a secondary outcome of pain reduction. RESULTS Higher levels of starting functional impairment (starting ODI scores of 42.9 vs. 37.5; P = 0.0304) were associated with a greater likelihood of improvement in functional status 6 months after RFA, and higher starting pain scores (DVPRS pain scores of 6.1 vs. 5.1; P < 0.0001) were associated with a higher likelihood that pain scores would improve 6 months after RFA. A multivariate logistic regression was then used to develop a scoring system to predict improvement after RFA. The scoring system generated a C-statistic of 0.764, with starting ODI, pain scores, and both gender and smoking history as independent variables. CONCLUSIONS This algorithm compares favorably to that of diagnostic medial branch block in terms of prediction accuracy (C-statistic of 0.764 vs. 0.57), suggesting that its use may improve patient selection in patients who undergo RFA for facet syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Scott Hughey
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Portsmouth, Virginia, USA
| | - Jacob Cole
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Portsmouth, Virginia, USA
| | - Gregory Booth
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Portsmouth, Virginia, USA
| | - Jeffrey Moore
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Portsmouth, Virginia, USA
| | - Benjamin McDowell
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Portsmouth, Virginia, USA
| | - Henry DeYoung
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Portsmouth, Virginia, USA
| | - Anna Hosig
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Portsmouth, Virginia, USA
| | - Thomas Moran
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Portsmouth, Virginia, USA
| | - Eric Stedje-Larsen
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Portsmouth, Virginia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Bo YMD, Peng HMD, Yukun LMD, Mingbo ZMD. Feasibility and Efficacy of the Segmental Localization of Lumbar Vertebrae by Ultrasound vs X-ray Examination: A Prospective Comparative Study. ADVANCED ULTRASOUND IN DIAGNOSIS AND THERAPY 2021. [DOI: 10.37015/audt.2021.200062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
|
26
|
Cohen SP, Bhaskar A, Bhatia A, Buvanendran A, Deer T, Garg S, Hooten WM, Hurley RW, Kennedy DJ, McLean BC, Moon JY, Narouze S, Pangarkar S, Provenzano DA, Rauck R, Sitzman BT, Smuck M, van Zundert J, Vorenkamp K, Wallace MS, Zhao Z. Consensus practice guidelines on interventions for lumbar facet joint pain from a multispecialty, international working group. Reg Anesth Pain Med 2020; 45:424-467. [PMID: 32245841 PMCID: PMC7362874 DOI: 10.1136/rapm-2019-101243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2019] [Revised: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The past two decades have witnessed a surge in the use of lumbar facet blocks and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) to treat low back pain (LBP), yet nearly all aspects of the procedures remain controversial. METHODS After approval by the Board of Directors of the American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, letters were sent to a dozen pain societies, as well as representatives from the US Departments of Veterans Affairs and Defense. A steering committee was convened to select preliminary questions, which were revised by the full committee. Questions were assigned to 4-5 person modules, who worked with the Subcommittee Lead and Committee Chair on preliminary versions, which were sent to the full committee. We used a modified Delphi method, whereby the questions were sent to the committee en bloc and comments were returned in a non-blinded fashion to the Chair, who incorporated the comments and sent out revised versions until consensus was reached. RESULTS 17 questions were selected for guideline development, with 100% consensus achieved by committee members on all topics. All societies except for one approved every recommendation, with one society dissenting on two questions (number of blocks and cut-off for a positive block before RFA), but approving the document. Specific questions that were addressed included the value of history and physical examination in selecting patients for blocks, the value of imaging in patient selection, whether conservative treatment should be used before injections, whether imaging is necessary for block performance, the diagnostic and prognostic value of medial branch blocks (MBB) and intra-articular (IA) injections, the effects of sedation and injectate volume on validity, whether facet blocks have therapeutic value, what the ideal cut-off value is for a prognostic block, how many blocks should be performed before RFA, how electrodes should be oriented, the evidence for larger lesions, whether stimulation should be used before RFA, ways to mitigate complications, if different standards should be applied to clinical practice and clinical trials and the evidence for repeating RFA (see table 12 for summary). CONCLUSIONS Lumbar medial branch RFA may provide benefit to well-selected individuals, with MBB being more predictive than IA injections. More stringent selection criteria are likely to improve denervation outcomes, but at the expense of more false-negatives. Clinical trials should be tailored based on objectives, and selection criteria for some may be more stringent than what is ideal in clinical practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steven P Cohen
- Anesthesiology, Pain Medicine Division, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Arun Bhaskar
- Anesthesiology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust Haemodialysis Clinic Hayes Satellite Unit, Hayes, UK
| | - Anuj Bhatia
- Anesthesia and Pain Management, University of Toronto and University Health Network-Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Tim Deer
- Spine & Nerve Centers, Charleston, West Virginia, USA
| | - Shuchita Garg
- Anesthesiology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | | | - Robert W Hurley
- Anesthesiology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - David J Kennedy
- Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Brian C McLean
- Anesthesiology, Tripler Army Medical Center, Tripler Army Medical Center, Hawaii, USA
| | - Jee Youn Moon
- Dept of Anesthesiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, The Republic of Korea
| | - Samer Narouze
- Center for Pain Medicine, Summa Western Reserve Hospital, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, USA
| | - Sanjog Pangarkar
- Dept of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Richard Rauck
- Carolinas Pain Institute, Winston Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Matthew Smuck
- Dept.of Orthopaedic Surgery, Division of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Stanford Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Jan van Zundert
- Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Multidisciplinary Pain Center, Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg, Lanaken, Belgium
- Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Mark S Wallace
- Anesthesiology, UCSD Medical Center-Thornton Hospital, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Zirong Zhao
- Neurology, VA Healthcare Center District of Columbia, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Puncture Surgical Technologies in the Treatment of Facet Syndrome for Spondylarthrosis in the Lumbar Spine (Literature Review). ACTA BIOMEDICA SCIENTIFICA 2020. [DOI: 10.29413/abs.2020-5.2.6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
|