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Sirucek L, De Schoenmacker I, Scheuren PS, Lütolf R, Gorrell LM, Langenfeld A, Baechler M, Rosner J, Wirth B, Hubli M, Schweinhardt P. Indication for spinal sensitization in chronic low back pain: mechanical hyperalgesia adjacent to but not within the most painful body area. Pain Rep 2024; 9:e1166. [PMID: 38910867 PMCID: PMC11191021 DOI: 10.1097/pr9.0000000000001166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction In 85% of patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP), no specific pathoanatomical cause can be identified. Besides primary peripheral drivers within the lower back, spinal or supraspinal sensitization processes might contribute to the patients' pain. Objectives The present study conceptualized the most painful area (MP) of patients with nonspecific CLBP as primarily affected area and assessed signs of peripheral, spinal, and supraspinal sensitization using quantitative sensory testing (QST) in MP, a pain-free area adjacent to MP (AD), and a remote, pain-free control area (CON). Methods Fifty-nine patients with CLBP (51 years, SD = 16.6, 22 female patients) and 35 pain-free control participants individually matched for age, sex, and testing areas (49 years, SD = 17.5, 19 female participants) underwent a full QST protocol in MP and a reduced QST protocol assessing sensory gain in AD and CON. Quantitative sensory testing measures, except paradoxical heat sensations and dynamic mechanical allodynia (DMA), were Z-transformed to the matched control participants and tested for significance using Z-tests (α = 0.001). Paradoxical heat sensations and DMA occurrence were compared between cohorts using Fisher's exact tests (α = 0.05). The same analyses were performed with a high-pain and a low-pain CLBP subsample (50% quantile). Results Patients showed cold and vibration hypoesthesia in MP (all Ps < 0.001) and mechanical hyperalgesia (P < 0.001) and more frequent DMA (P = 0.044) in AD. The results were mainly driven by the high-pain CLBP subsample. In CON, no sensory alterations were observed. Conclusion Mechanical hyperalgesia and DMA adjacent to but not within MP, the supposedly primarily affected area, might reflect secondary hyperalgesia originating from spinal sensitization in patients with CLBP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Sirucek
- Department of Chiropractic Medicine, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Iara De Schoenmacker
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Biomedical Data Science Lab, Institute of Translational Medicine, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Paulina Simonne Scheuren
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Robin Lütolf
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lindsay Mary Gorrell
- Department of Chiropractic Medicine, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Anke Langenfeld
- Department of Chiropractic Medicine, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mirjam Baechler
- Department of Chiropractic Medicine, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jan Rosner
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bern, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Danish Pain Research Center, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Brigitte Wirth
- Department of Chiropractic Medicine, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Michèle Hubli
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Petra Schweinhardt
- Department of Chiropractic Medicine, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Candan B, Gungor S. Traditional versus cooled-radiofrequency neurotomy for the treatment of chronic lumbar facet (zygapophyseal) joint pain. Pain Manag 2024:1-10. [PMID: 39076116 DOI: 10.1080/17581869.2024.2377061] [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: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim: Traditional radiofrequency ablation (TRFA) effectively treats facet joint-related pain, while water-cooled radiofrequency ablation (CRFA) may offer benefits like larger lesions and easier nerve access. Our goal is to assess the effectiveness of TRFA and CRFA for facet joint-related pain. Materials & methods: This retrospective study included an evaluation of 346 RFA interventions performed on 190 patients suffering from long-term low-back pain. The primary outcome was defined as a decrease of ≥50% of the mean numeric rating scale. Results: The primary outcome was achieved at the first follow-up (FU) for both TRFA and CRFA, with pain relief of 55.2 and 60.5%, respectively. At the second FU, the primary outcome was achieved only in the CRFA group (54.1%), although the TRFA group also showed a good improvement (48.6%). In both groups, pain relief was under 50% during the third FU. Conclusion: Our study indicates that both CRFA and TRFA modalities are effective and safe treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Burcu Candan
- Division of Musculoskeletal & Interventional Pain Management, Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care & Pain Management, Hospital for Special Surgery, NY 10021, USA
| | - Semih Gungor
- Division of Musculoskeletal & Interventional Pain Management, Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care & Pain Management, Hospital for Special Surgery, NY 10021, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, NY 10021,USA
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Chen X, Wang W, Cui P, Li Y, Lu S. Evidence of MRI image features and inflammatory biomarkers association with low back pain in patients with lumbar disc herniation. Spine J 2024; 24:1192-1201. [PMID: 38360179 DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2024.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CONTEXT While MRI image features and inflammatory biomarkers are frequently used for guiding treatment decisions in patients with lumbar disc herniation (LDH) and low back pain (LBP), our understanding of the connections between these features and LBP remains incomplete. There is a growing interest in the potential significance of MRI image features and inflammatory biomarkers, both for quantification and as emerging therapeutic tools for LBP. PURPOSE To investigate the evidence supporting MRI image features and inflammatory biomarkers as predictors of LBP and to determine their relationship with pain intensity. STUDY DESIGN Prospective cohort study. PATIENT SAMPLE All consecutive patients with LDH who underwent discectomy surgery at our institution from February 2020 to June 2023 at the author's institution were included. OUTCOME MEASURES MRI image features in discogenic, osseous, facetogenic, and paraspinal muscles, as well as inflammatory biomarkers in serum (including CRP (C-reactive protein), ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate), PCT (procalcitonin), TNF (tumor necrosis factor), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and IL-6), and paraspinal muscles (including TNF, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1)). METHODS A series of continuous patients diagnosed with LDH were categorized into acute LBP (<12 weeks), chronic LBP (≥12 weeks), and nonLBP groups. MRI image features and inflammatory biomarkers relation to pain intensity was assessed using the independent t-test, Chi-squared tests, Spearman rank correlation coefficient, and logistic regression test. RESULTS Compared to the nonLBP group, the chronic LBP group exhibited a higher incidence of intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration (≥ grade 3) and high-fat infiltration in paraspinal muscles, alongside a significant reduction in the cross-sectional area (CSA) and fatty degeneration of the multifidus muscle. Furthermore, there was a greater expression of IL-6 in serum and TNF in paraspinal muscles in the chronic LBP group and a greater expression of CRP and IL-6 in serum and TNF in paraspinal muscles in the acute LBP group. CSA and fatty degeneration of multifidus muscle were moderately negatively correlated with chronic LBP scores. The expression of TNF and IL-6 in serum and the expression of TNF in the multifidus muscle were moderately correlated with preoperative LBP. IVD degeneration and high-fat infiltration were identified as risk factors for chronic LBP. CONCLUSION The results provide evidence that IVD degeneration, high-fat infiltration, and the reduction of CSA in paraspinal muscles were associated with the development of chronic LBP in patients with LDH, and these associations are linked to inflammatory regulation. This deepens our understanding of the etiology and pathophysiology of LBP, potentially leading to improved patient stratification and more targeted interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolong Chen
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Peng Cui
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Yongjin Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Shibao Lu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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Manabe H, Morimoto M, Sugiura K, Takeuchi M, Tezuka F, Yamashita K, Sakai T, Sairyo K. Morphological Evaluation of Lumbar Facet Joints in Professional Baseball Players. Orthop J Sports Med 2024; 12:23259671231219194. [PMID: 38188616 PMCID: PMC10768590 DOI: 10.1177/23259671231219194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Many professional baseball players experience low back pain, a major cause of which is lumbar facet joint arthropathy. Purpose To evaluate the relationship between the dominant hand side and facet joint morphology in baseball movement. Study Design Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods Participants were 25 Japanese professional baseball players (11 pitchers and 14 fielders) with low back pain and lower limb symptoms. Player age, hand dominance, and length of professional playing experience were recorded, and the lateral diameter of all lumbar facet joints was determined from the axial computed tomography scans. We defined the facet joints ipsilateral and contralateral to the dominant hand as dominant and nondominant, respectively. The nondominant-to-dominant (N/D) ratio of the lateral diameter was calculated, and differences between the pitchers and fielders were analyzed using the unpaired t test. Results The average player age and length of professional playing experience were 26.9 years (range, 19-37 years) and 7.2 years (range, 1-15 years), respectively. The right hand was dominant in 9 pitchers and 5 fielders, while the left hand was dominant in 2 pitchers and 9 fielders. In pitchers, the average lateral facet joint diameter on the nondominant side was significantly larger than on the dominant side at all vertebral levels except L1 to L2 (P < .05 for all). The N/D ratio for each facet joint was 1.06 (L1-L2), 1.11 (L2-L3), 1.10 (L3-L4), 1.12 (L4-L5), and 1.12 (L5-S1). In fielders, the average lateral facet joint diameter on the dominant side was significantly larger than on the nondominant side at L3 to L4 (P < .05), with N/D ratios of 0.98 (L1-L2), 0.96 (L2-L3), 0.94 (L3-L4), 0.97 (L4-L5), and 0.98 (L5-S1). The N/D ratio was significantly larger in pitchers than in fielders at all levels (P < .05 for all). Conclusion The facet joints of professional baseball players were enlarged asymmetrically, with different tendencies observed between pitchers and fielders. Although pitching and batting are movements that transmit the rotation from the lower limbs to the upper limbs, the effects of rotation and lateral flexion were associated significantly with facet joint hypertrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroaki Manabe
- Department of Orthopedics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Morimoto
- Department of Orthopedics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Kosuke Sugiura
- Department of Orthopedics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Makoto Takeuchi
- Department of Orthopedics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Fumitake Tezuka
- Department of Orthopedics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Kazuta Yamashita
- Department of Orthopedics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Toshinori Sakai
- Department of Orthopedics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Koichi Sairyo
- Department of Orthopedics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
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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.
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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
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Pendleton J, Ng A. SPECT/CT Scan: A New Diagnostic Tool in Pain Medicine. Curr Pain Headache Rep 2023; 27:729-735. [PMID: 37837482 DOI: 10.1007/s11916-023-01177-4] [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] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The purpose of this review is to evaluate the role of SPECT/CT in identifying facet joint arthropathy and the outcomes of interventions with SPECT/CT as an adjunct. RECENT FINDINGS A positive finding of facet arthropathy on SPECT/CT is associated with a higher likelihood of a unilateral procedure and a significantly more effective intervention compared with those performed on patients with facet arthropathy diagnosed only by clinical and/or radiologic examination. Surgical treatment of SPECT/CT-positive findings appears to have a good effect; however, due to limitations in the available studies, no strong conclusion can be drawn. SPECT/CT has a good correlation identifying pain generators in chronic neck and back pain. SPECT/CT-targeted facet interventions demonstrate a higher success rate, but SPECT/CT is not recommended as a first-line diagnostic tool prior to diagnostic facet interventions. More robust studies are needed to confirm the higher success of surgical treatment for SPECT/CT-positive facet arthropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Pendleton
- Jefferson Pain Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Andrew Ng
- Jefferson Pain Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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Mayoral Rojals V, Amescua Garcia C, Denegri P, Narvaez Tamayo MA, Varrassi G. The Invasive Management of Pain: Diagnosis and New Treatment Options. Cureus 2023; 15:e42717. [PMID: 37654942 PMCID: PMC10466260 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.42717] [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: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Both the diagnosis and treatment of pain are evolving, especially in interventional approaches. Diagnosis of low back pain combines old and new methodologies, in particular, it involves an expanded role for ultrasound. While low back pain is a common complaint, there are many etiologies to the condition which must be explored before a final diagnosis can be made and treatment planned. Tumors and infections are rarely involved in low back pain but should be ruled out in the initial phase itself since failing to address them early can have devastating consequences. Some invasive treatments seem promising in the management of low back pain. Treating musculoskeletal pain with regenerative medicine, such as platelet-rich plasma, holds great promise. Autologous blood products are safe and may help stimulate the body's own responses for regeneration. The so-called "orthobiologics" play a role in sports medicine and the treatment of musculoskeletal pain. Neuromodulation, especially spinal cord stimulation, is undergoing a renaissance with new waveforms, devices, and a greater albeit incomplete understanding of its mechanisms of action. Spinal cord stimulation is not a first-line therapy and not all patients or all back problems respond to this treatment. Nevertheless, the therapy can be safe, effective, and cost-effective with appropriate patient selection. Radiofrequency ablation of nerves in the form of neurotomy can be effective in reducing the pain of osteoarthritis. These procedures, including the newer cooled radiofrequency neurotomy, can restore function, reduce pain, and may potentially have an opioid-sparing effect. Technical expertise in nerve and anatomy is needed for the use of this technique. This review article aims to provide updated information on some invasive intervention techniques in pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Pasquale Denegri
- Anesthesia, Intensive Care, and Pain Medicine, Sant'Anna and San Sebastiano Hospital, Caserta, ITA
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Jin Q, Chang Y, Lu C, Chen L, Wang Y. Referred pain: characteristics, possible mechanisms, and clinical management. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1104817. [PMID: 37448749 PMCID: PMC10338069 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1104817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose of this review Referred pain is a common but less understood symptom that originates from somatic tissues. A comprehensive recognition of referred pain is important for clinicians when dealing with it. The purpose of this study is to summarize the current understanding of referred pain, including its pathogenesis, characteristics, diagnosis, and treatment. Recent findings Referred pain arises not only from pathologies primarily involving local tissue but also from lesions in distant structures. Central sensitization of convergent neurons and peripheral reflexes of dichotomizing afferent fibers are two theories proposed to explain the pathological mechanism of referred pain. Because syndromes related to referred pain of different origins overlap each other, it is challenging to define referred pain and identify its originating lesions. Although various approaches have been used in the diagnosis and treatment of referred pain, including conservative treatment, blockade, radiofrequency, and surgery, management of referred pain remains a clinical challenge. Summary Unlike radicular pain and neuropathic pain, referred pain is a less studied area, despite being common in clinics. Referred pain can derive from various spinal structures, and blockage helps identify the primary pathology. Due to the heterogeneity of referred pain, treatment outcomes remain uncertain. Further studies are needed to improve our understanding of referred pain.
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van der Graaf JW, Kroeze RJ, Buckens CFM, Lessmann N, van Hooff ML. MRI image features with an evident relation to low back pain: a narrative review. 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 2023; 32:1830-1841. [PMID: 36892719 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-023-07602-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most prevalent health condition worldwide and responsible for the most years lived with disability, yet the etiology is often unknown. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is frequently used for treatment decision even though it is often inconclusive. There are many different image features that could relate to low back pain. Conversely, multiple etiologies do relate to spinal degeneration but do not actually cause the perceived pain. This narrative review provides an overview of all possible relevant features visible on MRI images and determines their relation to LBP. METHODS We conducted a separate literature search per image feature. All included studies were scored using the GRADE guidelines. Based on the reported results per feature an evidence agreement (EA) score was provided, enabling us to compare the collected evidence of separate image features. The various relations between MRI features and their associated pain mechanisms were evaluated to provide a list of features that are related to LBP. RESULTS All searches combined generated a total of 4472 hits of which 31 articles were included. Features were divided into five different categories:'discogenic', 'neuropathic','osseous', 'facetogenic', and'paraspinal', and discussed separately. CONCLUSION Our research suggests that type I Modic changes, disc degeneration, endplate defects, disc herniation, spinal canal stenosis, nerve compression, and muscle fat infiltration have the highest probability to be related to LBP. These can be used to improve clinical decision-making for patients with LBP based on MRI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasper W van der Graaf
- Diagnostic Image Analysis Group, Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Robert Jan Kroeze
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sint Maartenskliniek, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Constantinus F M Buckens
- Department of Medical Imaging, Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Nikolas Lessmann
- Diagnostic Image Analysis Group, Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Miranda L van Hooff
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Research, Sint Maartenskliniek, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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10
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Mattsson A, Ghafouri N, Bäckryd E. The treatment lottery of chronic back pain? A case series at a multidisciplinary pain centre. Scand J Pain 2022; 23:273-283. [PMID: 36508652 DOI: 10.1515/sjpain-2022-0133] [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: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite the number of people affected by chronic back pain, and the many available treatment options, even the best modalities provide limited pain reduction on a group level, often without simultaneous improvements in functioning or health-related quality of life. The objective was to provide an overview of the treatment of chronic back pain in clinical practice at a multidisciplinary pain centre, and to study patient and pain characteristics in different treatment groups. METHODS 104 chronic back pain patients (primary ICD-10-SE-diagnosis M53.0-M54.9 excluding M54.1 and M54.3), referred to the Pain and Rehabilitation Centre, University Hospital, Linköping in 2015, were studied using data from the Swedish Quality Registry for Pain Rehabilitation, self-reported medication data, and a retrospective medical record review. RESULTS The following treatment groups were identified: rehabilitation (n=21), analgesics (n=33), invasive intervention (n=14), and no treatment (n=35). Significant differences between groups were found with regards to age, sick leave, education level, persisting pain duration, punishing responses by significant other, previous invasive intervention, receiving sub-clinic, physician speciality and referring care level. CONCLUSIONS Overall, patient demographics were associated with treatment strategy to a higher degree than patient-reported outcome measures. Moreover, physician speciality and organisational factors seemed to play a role in treatment choice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Mattsson
- Pain and Rehabilitation Center, and Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Nazdar Ghafouri
- Pain and Rehabilitation Center, and Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Emmanuel Bäckryd
- Pain and Rehabilitation Center, and Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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Sayed D, Grider J, Strand N, Hagedorn JM, Falowski S, Lam CM, Tieppo Francio V, Beall DP, Tomycz ND, Davanzo JR, Aiyer R, Lee DW, Kalia H, Sheen S, Malinowski MN, Verdolin M, Vodapally S, Carayannopoulos A, Jain S, Azeem N, Tolba R, Chang Chien GC, Ghosh P, Mazzola AJ, Amirdelfan K, Chakravarthy K, Petersen E, Schatman ME, Deer T. The American Society of Pain and Neuroscience (ASPN) Evidence-Based Clinical Guideline of Interventional Treatments for Low Back Pain. J Pain Res 2022; 15:3729-3832. [PMID: 36510616 PMCID: PMC9739111 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s386879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Painful lumbar spinal disorders represent a leading cause of disability in the US and worldwide. Interventional treatments for lumbar disorders are an effective treatment for the pain and disability from low back pain. Although many established and emerging interventional procedures are currently available, there exists a need for a defined guideline for their appropriateness, effectiveness, and safety. Objective The ASPN Back Guideline was developed to provide clinicians the most comprehensive review of interventional treatments for lower back disorders. Clinicians should utilize the ASPN Back Guideline to evaluate the quality of the literature, safety, and efficacy of interventional treatments for lower back disorders. Methods The American Society of Pain and Neuroscience (ASPN) identified an educational need for a comprehensive clinical guideline to provide evidence-based recommendations. Experts from the fields of Anesthesiology, Physiatry, Neurology, Neurosurgery, Radiology, and Pain Psychology developed the ASPN Back Guideline. The world literature in English was searched using Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane CENTRAL, BioMed Central, Web of Science, Google Scholar, PubMed, Current Contents Connect, Scopus, and meeting abstracts to identify and compile the evidence (per section) for back-related pain. Search words were selected based upon the section represented. Identified peer-reviewed literature was critiqued using United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) criteria and consensus points are presented. Results After a comprehensive review and analysis of the available evidence, the ASPN Back Guideline group was able to rate the literature and provide therapy grades to each of the most commonly available interventional treatments for low back pain. Conclusion The ASPN Back Guideline represents the first comprehensive analysis and grading of the existing and emerging interventional treatments available for low back pain. This will be a living document which will be periodically updated to the current standard of care based on the available evidence within peer-reviewed literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawood Sayed
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA,Correspondence: Dawood Sayed, The University of Kansas Health System, 3901 Rainbow Blvd, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA, Tel +1 913-588-5521, Email
| | - Jay Grider
- University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Natalie Strand
- Interventional Pain Management, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
| | | | - Steven Falowski
- Functional Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Associates of Lancaster, Lancaster, PA, USA
| | - Christopher M Lam
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Vinicius Tieppo Francio
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | | | - Nestor D Tomycz
- AHN Neurosurgery, Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Rohit Aiyer
- Interventional Pain Management and Pain Psychiatry, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - David W Lee
- Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Pain Medicine, Fullerton Orthopedic Surgery Medical Group, Fullerton, CA, USA
| | - Hemant Kalia
- Rochester Regional Health System, Rochester, NY, USA,Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Soun Sheen
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Mark N Malinowski
- Adena Spine Center, Adena Health System, Chillicothe, OH, USA,Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Athens, OH, USA
| | - Michael Verdolin
- Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Pain Consultants of San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Shashank Vodapally
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Alexios Carayannopoulos
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rhode Island Hospital, Newport Hospital, Lifespan Physician Group, Providence, RI, USA,Comprehensive Spine Center at Rhode Island Hospital, Newport Hospital, Providence, RI, USA,Neurosurgery, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Sameer Jain
- Interventional Pain Management, Pain Treatment Centers of America, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Nomen Azeem
- Department of Neurology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA,Florida Spine & Pain Specialists, Riverview, FL, USA
| | - Reda Tolba
- Pain Management, Cleveland Clinic, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates,Anesthesiology, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - George C Chang Chien
- Pain Management, Ventura County Medical Center, Ventura, CA, USA,Center for Regenerative Medicine, University Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Krishnan Chakravarthy
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA,Va San Diego Healthcare, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Erika Petersen
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Arkansas for Medical Science, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Michael E Schatman
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Care, and Pain Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA,Department of Population Health - Division of Medical Ethics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Timothy Deer
- The Spine and Nerve Center of the Virginias, Charleston, WV, USA
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12
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Chang MC, Yang S. Effectiveness of pulsed radiofrequency on the medial cervical branches for cervical facet joint pain. World J Clin Cases 2022; 10:7720-7727. [PMID: 36158472 PMCID: PMC9372847 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i22.7720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cervical facet joint pain (CFP) is one of the most common causes of neck pain and headache. Persistent CFP deteriorates the quality of life of patients and reduces their productivity at work.
AIM To investigate the effectiveness of pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) stimulation of cervical medial branches in patients with chronic CFP.
METHODS We retrospectively included 21 consecutive patients (age = 50.9 ± 15.3 years, range 26-79 years; male: female = 8:13; pain duration = 7.7 ± 5.0 mo) with chronic CFP, defined as ≥ 4 on the numeric rating scale (NRS). We performed PRF stimulation on the cervical medial branches. The outcomes of the PRF procedure were evaluated by comparing the NRS scores for CFP before treatment and 1 and 3 mo after treatment. Successful pain relief was defined as a ≥ 50% reduction in the NRS score at 3 mo when compared with the pretreatment NRS score.
RESULTS No patient had immediate or late adverse effects following PRF. The average NRS score for CFP decreased from 5.3 ± 1.1 at pre-treatment to 2.4 ± 0.6 at the 1 mo follow-up, and 3.1 ± 1.1 at the 3 mo follow-up. Compared to the NRS scores before PRF stimulation, those at 1 and 3 mo after PRF stimulation had significantly decreased. Eleven of the 21 patients (52.4%) reported successful pain relief 3 mo after the PRF procedure. PRF stimulation on cervical medial branches may be a useful therapeutic option to control chronic CFP.
CONCLUSION PRF stimulation of the cervical medial branches may be used as an alternative treatment method in patients with CFP. PRF can effectively alleviate CFP, and is safe to perform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Cheol Chang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Taegu 42415, South Korea
| | - Seoyon Yang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, School of Medicine, Ewha Woman's University Seoul Hospital, Seoul 07804, South Korea
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13
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Abd-Elsayed A, Azeem N, Chopra P, D’Souza RS, Sayed D, Deer T. An International Survey on the Practice of Lumbar Radiofrequency Ablation for Management of Zygapophyseal (Facet)-Mediated Low Back Pain. J Pain Res 2022; 15:1083-1090. [PMID: 35444461 PMCID: PMC9015042 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s354506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The objective of this study was to survey current clinical practice related to lumbar radiofrequency (RFA) for the treatment of zygapophyseal (facet)-mediated low back pain. Methods Survey questions regarding the clinical practice of lumbar RFA were created and piloted by the American Society of Pain and Neuroscience (ASPN) leadership. After revision for clarity, health-care professionals worldwide who hold membership status within the ASPN Society and who offer lumbar RFA in their clinical practice were recruited to participate in this online survey. All responses were tabulated and summarized descriptively. Results A total of 329 participants responded in the survey. Most participants specialized in anesthesiology (68.4%) and physical medicine and rehabilitation (21.8%) and had been practicing pain management for more than five years (70.5%). Of physician respondents, 27.5% did not complete an Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME)-accredited pain medicine fellowship and 16.5% were not board-certified in pain medicine. The majority of providers (69.7%) reported that they perform two diagnostic medial branch blocks prior to proceeding with lumbar RFA. Bupivacaine 0.5% was the most common medication utilized for both the first (37.4%) and second (37.1%) diagnostic blocks. There were 32.6% of total respondents who reported not utilizing contrast dye when performing diagnostic blocks. The vast majority of providers (91.4%) reported using conventional RFA for lumbar medial branch neurotomy. Conclusion This survey study provides a summary of the application of lumbar RFA for the treatment of axial low back pain in the real-world setting. We highlight a significant portion of providers who perform lumbar RFA yet do not have pain fellowship training at an ACGME-accredited institution or do not maintain current pain medicine board certification. We also report deviations from standard practice, specifically the type of local anesthetic used for comparative diagnostic blocks and the omission of contrast injection during diagnostic blocks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaa Abd-Elsayed
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Correspondence: Alaa Abd-Elsayed, Department of Anesthesiology University of Wisconsin Madison, WI, USA, Email
| | - Nomen Azeem
- Florida Spine & Pain Specialists, Tampa, FL, USA
| | | | - Ryan S D’Souza
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic Hospital, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Dawood Sayed
- Department of Pain Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Timothy Deer
- The Spine and Nerve Centers, Charleston, WV, USA
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14
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Maas ET, Juch JNS, Ostelo RWJG, Groeneweg JG, Kallewaard JW, Koes BW, Verhagen AP, van Dongen JM, van Tulder MW, Huygen FJPM. Author Reply. VALUE IN HEALTH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PHARMACOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2021; 24:1235-1236. [PMID: 34372990 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2021.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Esther T Maas
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Movement Sciences Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Johan N S Juch
- Department of Anesthesiology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Raymond W J G Ostelo
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Movement Sciences Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam Movement Sciences Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Vrije Universiteit Medical Centre Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J George Groeneweg
- Department of Anesthesiology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Bart W Koes
- Department of General Practice, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Arianne P Verhagen
- Department of General Practice, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Johanna M van Dongen
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Movement Sciences Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maurits W van Tulder
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Movement Sciences Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Frank J P M Huygen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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15
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Liang CL, Wang SW, Chen HJ, Tsai YD, Chen JS, Wang HK, Wang KW. Optimal Cut-Off Points of Sagittal Spinopelvic Parameters as a Morphological Parameter to Predict Efficiency in Nerve Block and Pulsed Radiofrequency for Lumbar Facet Joint Pain: A Retrospective Study. J Pain Res 2021; 14:1949-1957. [PMID: 34234541 PMCID: PMC8253931 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s303979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background After proper patient selection, anatomically correct pulsed radiofrequency of the lumbar facet joints provide long-term pain relief in a routine clinical setting. In the study, we performed an analysis of clinical and radiological predictive factors and provide the scientific basis for this promising modality. Methods The study included 198 patients with lower back pain due to lumbar facet joint disease who underwent medial branch block and pulsed radiofrequency during the period 2015–2019. According to the improvement in pain score, the patients were divided into good and poor outcome groups. Clinical and radiological data were collected and analyzed. Results The multivariable analysis revealed the predictive factors, including lumbar lordosis, lower lumbar lordosis, pelvic tilt, the number of facet joints, old compression fracture with/without vertebroplasty, and post lumbar fusion procedures. Conclusion With the results of this study, we demonstrated that the improved outcome after the surgery was related to lumbar lordosis, lower lumbar lordosis, pelvic tilt, the number of facet joints, old compression fracture with/without vertebroplasty, and the lumbar fusion procedures. Old compression fractures and lumbar fusion would change the radiological factors and cause refractory lumbar facet joint pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Loong Liang
- Department of Neurosurgery, E-DA Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Wei Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, E-DA Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Rheumatology, E-DA Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Han-Jung Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, E-DA Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Duan Tsai
- Department of Neurosurgery, E-DA Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Jui-Sheng Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, E-DA Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hao-Kuang Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, E-DA Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Wei Wang
- School of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Neurosurgery, E-Da Cancer Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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16
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Abstract
Aging athletes face unique, increased adversities related to increased mobility and age-related spine issues, such as spinal stenosis, osteoporosis complicated by fragility fractures, and degenerative disk disease. This article covers various spine pathologies that aging athletes experience and ideal treatment of this population to allow safe return to activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pramod N Kamalapathy
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Virginia, 400 Ray Hunt C. Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Hamid Hassanzadeh
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Virginia, 400 Ray Hunt C. Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA.
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17
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El-Kadiry AEH, Lumbao C, Rafei M, Shammaa R. Autologous BMAC Therapy Improves Spinal Degenerative Joint Disease in Lower Back Pain Patients. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:622573. [PMID: 33816523 PMCID: PMC8012529 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.622573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal degenerative joint disease (DJD) is associated with lower back pain (LBP) arising from the degeneration of intervertebral discs (IVD), facet joints, intertransversarii muscles, and interspinous ligaments among other anatomical structures. To circumvent the socioeconomic burdens and often-problematic surgical options imposed by DJD therapy, cell-based biologic modalities like bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) have been investigated in pre-clinical and clinical settings, mostly for IVD degeneration (IDD), with encouraging outcomes. In this study, we evaluated the differences in therapeutic benefits of BMAC between IVD- and facet joint-originating chronic LBP. Eighteen patients diagnosed with chronic LBP met the selection criteria. Following discography and provocation testing, 13 patients tested positive and were assigned into IDD-associated LBP (1st arm), while the remaining 5 tested negative and were assigned into facetogenic LBP (2nd arm). Autologous BMAC was injected intradiscally in the 1st arm, while the 2nd arm received posterior spinal chain injections. No procedure-related serious events ensued. Clinical improvement was evaluated over 12 months based on pain and functionality questionnaires (VAS, BPI, RAND-36), opioid use, and changes in disc parameters assessed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Ameliorated VAS and BPI scores differed significantly between both arms in favor of IDD patients who also took significantly less opioids. Average RAND-36 scores showed no significant difference between groups albeit a trend suggesting improvement was observed in IDD patients. MRI scans conducted on IDD patients demonstrated marked elevation in disc height and spinal canal space size without worsening disc quality. Overall, this is the first study investigating the potency of BMAC as an IDD treatment in Canada and the first globally for addressing facetogenic pain using cellular therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abed El-Hakim El-Kadiry
- Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Carlos Lumbao
- Canadian Centre for Regenerative Therapy, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Moutih Rafei
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases, and Immunology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Molecular Biology Program, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Riam Shammaa
- Canadian Centre for Regenerative Therapy, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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18
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Sources of lumbar back pain during aging and potential therapeutic targets. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2021; 115:571-583. [PMID: 33706962 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2020.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Lumbar back pain during aging is a major clinical problem, the origins and underlying mechanisms of which are challenging to study. Degenerative changes occur in various parts of the functional spinal unit, such the vertebral endplate and intervertebral disc. The homeostasis of these structural components is regulated by signaling molecules, such as transforming growth factor-β and parathyroid hormone. Previous efforts to understand sources of lumbar back pain focused on sensory innervation in the degenerative intervertebral disc, but intervertebral disc degeneration is frequently asymptomatic. An in vivo mouse model of lumbar spine aging and degeneration, combined with genetic technology, has identified endplate innervation as a major source of lumbar back pain and a potential therapeutic target. In this review, we consider how each structural component of the functional spinal unit contributes to lumbar back pain, how the homeostasis of each component is regulated, and how these findings can be used to develop potential therapies.
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19
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Srour R, Gdoura Y, Delaitre M, Mortada J, Benali MA, Millot F, Hritcu D, Timofeev A, Sellal F. Facet Arthrodesis with the FFX Device: One-Year Results from a Prospective Multicenter Study. Int J Spine Surg 2020; 14:996-1002. [PMID: 33560260 PMCID: PMC7872413 DOI: 10.14444/7149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Facet osteosynthesis can be performed to treat facet syndrome (FS) and reduce spinal instability following laminectomy in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). The present study evaluated clinical and radiological outcomes following facet osteosynthesis with the FFX device. METHODS Patients with FS or LSS were prospectively enrolled in a single-arm, multicenter study. The device was placed at affected levels with or without concomitant posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) procedures. The visual analog scale (VAS) for back and leg pain and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively. Computed tomography scans to assess fusion and migration were performed 1 year following surgery. RESULTS Fifty-three patients (26 men/27 women) with a mean age of 65.0 ± 9.6 years (range: 37-83 years) were enrolled. A total of 205 FFX devices were implanted with 15 patients undergoing concurrent PLIF procedures. There were no intraoperative or postoperative surgical complication reported, and no patient required revision surgery. Mean VAS leg and back pain scores significantly improved from 5.57 to 2.09 (P < .001) and 5.74 to 3.13 (P < .001), respectively, between the preoperative and 1 year follow-up assessments. Mean ODI scores also significantly improved from 44.7% to 24.0% (P < .001) during the same time period. Facet fusion occurred with 86.3% of device placements after 12 months. There was 1 (0.5%) asymptomatic device migration. Eight devices (3.9%) were considered misplaced. CONCLUSIONS The use of the FFX device is associated with a significant reduction in both pain and disability following surgery with a high facet joint fusion rate. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 4. CLINICAL RELEVANCE This is the first study reporting clinical experience using the FFX device to facilitate facet osteosynthesis. The ability of the device to relieve pain, reduce disability, and enhance lumbar facet fusion with a low rate of device misplacement and migration was demonstrated.
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20
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Karkucak M, Batmaz İ, Kerimoglu S, Ayar A. Comparison of clinical outcomes of ultrasonography-guided and blind local injections in facet syndrome: A 6-week randomized controlled trial. J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil 2020; 33:431-436. [PMID: 31524141 DOI: 10.3233/bmr-181447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Facet syndrome is defined as pain that arises from any structure of the facet joints, including the fibrous capsule, synovial membrane, hyaline cartilage, and bone. OBJECTIVES To compare the effectiveness of US-guided and blind injections on clinical outcome in facet syndrome. MATERIALS AND METHODS Forty-seven patients with the diagnosis of facet syndrome were included. Patients were consecutively randomized into one of the two groups. The patient's history, physical examination and routine laboratory parameters were obtained and diagnose was established based on physical findings. Two injections (mixture of 2 ml of 1% lidocaine hydrochloride and 20 mg of triamcinolone, to a single or maximum two sites depending on the clinical characteristics of the facet joint) were performed with 15 days apart, as blinded or US-guided manner. Clinical outcome assessments were carried out at 0, 2nd and 6th weeks, using Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). RESULTS The patients' initial VAS and ODI were not significantly different. When the two groups were compared in the 6th week in terms of VAS scores, improvement was more pronounced in the US-guided injection group (US-guided group (n= 23) before 7.6 (2.2) cm, after 3.0 (1.7) cm, P= 0.0001 vs blind group (n= 24) before 7.2 (1.3) cm, after 5.2 (2.0) cm, P= 0.0001). The improvement in initial and 6th week ODI was statistically significant in the US-guided injection group (P= 0.006). Except STAI I for US-group, trait anxiety scale scores were significant in both groups. CONCLUSION The US-guided local injections offer better clinical outcome in the treatment of facet syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murat Karkucak
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Medical School, Division of Rheumatology, Karadeniz Technical University, Farabi Hospital, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - İbrahim Batmaz
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Medical School, Dicle University, Diyarbakır, Turkey
| | - Servet Kerimoglu
- Department Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Medical School, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Ayar
- Department Physiology, Medical School, Karadeniz Techical University, Trabzon, Turkey
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21
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Sansone P, Giaccari LG, Lippiello A, Aurilio C, Paladini A, Passavanti MB, Pota V, Pace MC. Pulsed Radiofrequency for Lumbar Facet Joint Pain: A Viable Therapeutic Option? A Retrospective Observational Study. Pain Ther 2020; 9:573-582. [PMID: 32770486 PMCID: PMC7648804 DOI: 10.1007/s40122-020-00187-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Low back pain (LBP) is a common problem, and facet joint pain is responsible for 15–45% of cases. Treatment is multidisciplinary, and when conservative measures are not sufficient, radiofrequency (RF) is often used. It allows the interruption of nociceptive input, producing a heat lesion in a continuous or pulsed mode. Methods Medical records of 60 patients who underwent pulsed RF denervation were examined. The standard procedure provided follow-up of pain intensity. Numerical rating scale (NRS) and Douleur Neuropathique en 4 Questions (DN4) were recorded before treatment, and 15 and 40 days, and 6 months after treatment. Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and patient satisfaction were also recorded. Successful treatment was defined as more than a 50% reduction in the NRS scores at 6 months compared with pretreatment scores. Results Scores on the NRS and DN4 were statistically different over time (p < 0.05). Scores at 6 months were significantly decreased when compared with pretreatment scores (p < 0.05). ODI scores decreased during the follow-up period. No adverse effect was recorded and 57 patients (97%) reported successful pain relief. Conclusions Continuous RF is the gold standard in the management of lumbar facet joint pain. Pulsed RF is a promising technique: patients with chronic LBP who had not responded to conservative care tended to improve after pulsed RF. The procedure was well tolerated in the absence of contraindications, and reliable if the nerve endings regrew.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pasquale Sansone
- Department of Women, Children and General and Specialist Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy.
| | - Luca G Giaccari
- Department of Women, Children and General and Specialist Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Antonietta Lippiello
- Department of Neurosurgery, "Santa Maria delle Grazie Hospital", Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Caterina Aurilio
- Department of Women, Children and General and Specialist Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | | | - Maria Beatrice Passavanti
- Department of Women, Children and General and Specialist Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Pota
- Department of Women, Children and General and Specialist Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Caterina Pace
- Department of Women, Children and General and Specialist Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
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22
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Maas ET, Juch JNS, Ostelo RWJG, Groeneweg JG, Kallewaard JW, Koes BW, Verhagen AP, van Dongen JM, van Tulder MW, Huygen FJPM. Cost-Effectiveness of Radiofrequency Denervation for Patients With Chronic Low Back Pain: The MINT Randomized Clinical Trials. VALUE IN HEALTH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PHARMACOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2020; 23:585-594. [PMID: 32389224 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2019.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Revised: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of radiofrequency denervation when added to a standardized exercise program for patients with chronic low back pain. METHODS An economic evaluation was conducted alongside 3 pragmatic multicenter, nonblinded randomized clinical trials (RCTs) in The Netherlands with a follow up of 52 weeks. Eligible participants were included between January 1, 2013, and October 24, 2014, and had chronic low back pain; a positive diagnostic block at the facet joints (n = 251), sacroiliac (SI) joints (n = 228), or a combination of facet joints, SI joints, and intervertebral discs (n = 202); and were unresponsive to initial conservative care. Quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) and societal costs were measured using self-reported questionnaires. Missing data were imputed using multiple imputation. Bootstrapping was used to estimate statistical uncertainty. RESULTS After 52 weeks, no difference in costs between groups was found in the facet joint or combination RCT. The total costs were significantly higher for the intervention group in the SI joint RCT. The maximum probability of radiofrequency denervation being cost-effective when added to a standardized exercise program ranged from 0.10 in the facet joint RCT to 0.17 in the SI joint RCT irrespective of the ceiling ratio, and 0.65 at a ceiling ratio of €30 000 per QALY in the combination RCT. CONCLUSIONS Although equivocal among patients with symptoms in a combination of the facet joints, SI joints, and intervertebral discs, evidence suggests that radiofrequency denervation combined with a standardized exercise program cannot be considered cost-effective from a societal perspective for patients with chronic low back pain originating from either facet or SI joints in a Dutch healthcare setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther T Maas
- Department of Health Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Movement Science Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Johan N S Juch
- Department of Anesthesiology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Raymond W J G Ostelo
- Department of Health Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Movement Science Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J George Groeneweg
- Department of Anesthesiology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Bart W Koes
- Department of General Practice, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Arianne P Verhagen
- Department of General Practice, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Graduate School of Health, Discipline of Physiotherapy, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia
| | - Johanna M van Dongen
- Department of Health Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Movement Science Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maurits W van Tulder
- Department of Health Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Movement Science Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Frank J P M Huygen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Yoo BR, Lee E, Lee JW, Kang Y, Ahn JM, Kang HS. Incidence and pattern of epidural spread during lumbar facet joint injection: a prospective study. Acta Radiol 2020; 61:636-643. [PMID: 31510763 DOI: 10.1177/0284185119874480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background In clinical practice, we have often observed contrast material spreading into the epidural space during lumbar facet joint injection. However, the exact incidence of epidural spread and contrast pattern have not been reported. Purpose To evaluate the incidence and pattern of epidural spread in lumbar facet joint injection. Material and Methods One hundred consecutive patients (38 men, 62 women; mean age 68 years; age range 20–88 years) who underwent lumbar facet joint injection at two sites between April 2014 and June 2014 were investigated in this prospective study. Initial oblique, final anteroposterior, and lateral fluoroscopic images were obtained and evaluated for the presence of epidural spread and its contrast pattern (based on direction and extent) with the consensus of three radiologists. The relationship between epidural spread and its potential predictors was analyzed using the chi-squared test, Fisher’s exact test, and the t-test. Results The incidence of epidural spread during lumbar facet joint injection was 64.6% (n=64) in 99 patients and 49.5% (n=95) in 192 procedures; ventral spread occurred in 29.2% and foraminal spread in 18.8%. When epidural spread occurred, the most commonly identified distributions were unilateral (73.7%), dorsal (92.6%), and cephalad (92.6%). Epidural spread increased significantly in the caudocephalic direction ( P < 0.0001), in men (relative risk [RR]=1.478), in the adjacency of posterior fusion level (RR=1.545), in patients with spondylolisthesis (RR=1.454), and when there was no other leakage (RR=0.334). Conclusion Epidural spread occurred at about half the number of lumbar facet joint injections and showed a contrast pattern similar to that seen with the interlaminar approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Reum Yoo
- Department of Radiology, Cosmo Internal Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Eugene Lee
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Joon Woo Lee
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Yusuhn Kang
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Joong Mo Ahn
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Heung Sik Kang
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
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Perez-Roman RJ, Brusko GD, Burks SS, Serafini AN, Wang MY. Use of Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography Imaging for Hypermetabolic Facet Identification in Diagnosis of Cervical and Axial Back Pain. World Neurosurg 2020; 137:e487-e492. [PMID: 32059968 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2020.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies have used hybrid single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT)/computed tomography (CT) scan to identify degenerative facet disease. We aimed to determine the incidence of hypermetabolic facets on SPECT/CT imaging in patients with axial neck or back pain to elucidate the value of SPECT/CT scan in identifying pain generators. METHODS A retrospective review of adult patients with axial neck or back pain was conducted. A total of 190 patients underwent high-resolution SPECT/CT imaging using a standardized protocol from January 2010 to April 2018. Facet joints with increased radionuclide uptake on SPECT imaging were characterized as hypermetabolic. Number, level, and laterality of hypermetabolic facets were recorded based on review of imaging and radiologist impressions. RESULTS The average age of the patients was 58 ± 13 years, and 51% of patients were men. A total of 85 patients (48%) demonstrated zygapophyseal joint hypermetabolism (ZJH) on SPECT imaging. A total of 202 hypermetabolic facets were identified, indicating the average number of facets with ZJH was 2.38 ± 1.91. Of patients with a positive scan, lumbar facets were most commonly affected (69% of ZJH) followed by cervical (24%) and thoracic regions (6%). C1-2 and C2-3 (22% each of cervical ZJH) and L4-5 (32% of lumbar ZJH) were most commonly affected in the cervical and lumbar regions, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Nearly half of all patients with axial neck or back pain demonstrated ZJH on SPECT/CT imaging, supporting ZJH sites as potential pain generators and targets for treatment. Our results support the role for SPECT/CT imaging in the workup of patients with axial neck or back pain, which may reduce invasive diagnostic procedures and aid in treatment planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto J Perez-Roman
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA.
| | - G Damian Brusko
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - S Shelby Burks
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Aldo N Serafini
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Radiology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Michael Y Wang
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
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Intra-articular facet joint steroid injection–related adverse events encountered during 11,980 procedures. Eur Radiol 2019; 30:1507-1516. [DOI: 10.1007/s00330-019-06483-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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The Chinese Association for the Study of Pain (CASP): Consensus on the Assessment and Management of Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain. Pain Res Manag 2019; 2019:8957847. [PMID: 31511784 PMCID: PMC6714323 DOI: 10.1155/2019/8957847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2018] [Revised: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Chronic nonspecific low back pain (CNLBP) is defined as pain or discomfort originating from the waist, which lasts for at least 12 weeks, but no radiculopathy or specific spinal diseases. CNLBP is a complicated medical problem and places a huge burden on healthcare systems. Clinical manifestation of CNLBP includes discogenic LBP, zygapophyseal joint pain, sacroiliac joint pain, and lumbar muscle strain. Further evaluation should be completed to confirm the diagnosis including auxiliary examination, functional assessment, and clinical assessment. The principle of the management is to relieve pain, restore function, and avoid recurrence. Treatment includes conservative treatment, minimally invasive treatment, and rehabilitation. Pharmacologic therapy is the first-line treatment of nonspecific LBP, and it is most widely used in clinical practice. Interventional therapy should be considered only after failure of medication and physical therapy. Multidisciplinary rehabilitation can improve physical function and alleviate short-term and long-term pain. The emphasis should be put on the prevention of NLBP and reducing relevant risk factors.
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A Review of Hip-Spine Syndrome. CURRENT PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s40141-019-00231-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Starr JB, Gold L, McCormick Z, Suri P, Friedly J. Trends in lumbar radiofrequency ablation utilization from 2007 to 2016. Spine J 2019; 19:1019-1028. [PMID: 30639589 PMCID: PMC6534485 DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2019.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Revised: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 01/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CONTEXT Lumbar radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an intervention used to treat facet-mediated chronic low back pain. In some studies with methods consistent with clinical practice guidelines, RFA results in improvements in pain and functional limitations. However, in other studies, RFA demonstrates limited benefit. Despite unanswered questions regarding efficacy of RFA, its use is widespread. PURPOSE To describe trends in the utilization and cost of lumbar RFA and lumbar facet injections. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING Retrospective cohort study. PATIENT SAMPLE The sample was derived from the IBM/Watson MarketScan Commercial Claims and Encounters Databases from 2007 to 2016. OUTCOME MEASURES Longitudinal trends in the distribution and quantity of lumbar facet injections before lumbar RFA, corticosteroid administration during lumbar facet injections, progression to lumbar RFA after lumbar facet injections, lumbar RFA utilization, and costs of these interventions. METHODS Two primary cohorts were identified from patients who received lumbar RFA or lumbar facet injection procedures. Utilization rates per 100,000 enrollees were determined for both cohorts. The mean, median, and interquartile ranges of the number of facets targeted and costs per procedure were calculated by year and laterality, as well as overall. Costs in 2018 dollars were estimated by summing gross payment totals from patients and insurance plans. This study was supported by funds from the NIH, and has no conflict of interest associated biases. RESULTS From 2007 to 2016, lumbar RFA sessions performed per 100,000 enrollees per year increased from 49 to 113, a 130.6% overall increase (9.7% annually). Lumbar facet injection use increased from 201 to 251 sessions per 100,000 enrollees, a 24.9% overall increase (2.5% annually). In the year after a lumbar facet injection, 26.7% of patients received lumbar RFA; 28.6% received another injection but not RFA; and 44.7% received neither. The number of patients receiving two lumbar facet injection procedures prior to lumbar RFA grew from 51.1% in 2010 to 58.8% in 2016. For lumbar RFA, the cost per 100,000 enrollees went from $94,570 in 2007 to $266,680 in 2016, a 12.2% annual increase. For lumbar facet injections, the cost per 100,000 enrollees went from $257,280 in 2007 to $396,580 in 2016, a 4.9% annual increase. CONCLUSIONS This analysis showed consistent growth in both the frequency and procedure cost of lumbar RFA and facet injections among a large, national, commercially insured population from 2007 to 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan B Starr
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Box 356540, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
| | - Laurie Gold
- CLEAR Center, University of Washington, Box 359455, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Zachary McCormick
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah, 30 North 1900 East, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
| | - Pradeep Suri
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Box 359612, Seattle, WA 98104, USA; Rehabilitation Care Services, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, 1660 South Columbian Way, Seattle, WA, 98108, USA
| | - Janna Friedly
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Box 359612, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
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Huygen F, Kallewaard JW, van Tulder M, Van Boxem K, Vissers K, van Kleef M, Van Zundert J. "Evidence-Based Interventional Pain Medicine According to Clinical Diagnoses": Update 2018. Pain Pract 2019; 19:664-675. [PMID: 30957944 PMCID: PMC6850128 DOI: 10.1111/papr.12786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Between 2009 and 2011 a series of 26 articles on evidence‐based medicine for interventional pain medicine according to clinical diagnoses were published. The high number of publications since the last literature search justified an update. Methods For the update an independent 3rd party, specialized in systematic reviews was asked in 2015 to perform the literature search and summarize relevant evidence using Cochrane and GRADE methodology to compile guidelines on interventional pain management. The guideline committee reviewed the information and made a last update on March 1st 2018. The information from new studies published after the research performed by the 3th party and additional observational studies was used to incorporate other factors such as side effects and complications, invasiveness, costs and ethical factors, which influence the ultimate recommendations. Results For the different indications a total of 113 interventions were evaluated. Twenty‐seven (24%) interventions were new compared to the previous guidelines and the recommendation changed for only 3 (2.6%) of the interventions. Discussion This article summarizes the evolution of the quality of evidence and the strength of recommendations for the interventional pain treatment options for 28 clinical pain diagnoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Huygen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Maurits van Tulder
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Vrije Universiteit Medical Centre Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Koen Van Boxem
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Multidisciplinary Pain Center, Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg, Belgium
| | - Kris Vissers
- Department of Pain and Palliative Pain Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten van Kleef
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Van Zundert
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Multidisciplinary Pain Center, Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg, Belgium.,Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Malik KM, Beckerly R, Imani F. Musculoskeletal Disorders a Universal Source of Pain and Disability Misunderstood and Mismanaged: A Critical Analysis Based on the U.S. Model of Care. Anesth Pain Med 2018; 8:e85532. [PMID: 30775292 PMCID: PMC6348332 DOI: 10.5812/aapm.85532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2018] [Revised: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Musculoskeletal disorders are the leading source of pain and disability globally but are especially prevalent in the industrialized nations including the U.S. In addition to the substantial individual suffering caused the rising monetary costs of these disorders are noteworthy. In the U.S. alone the annual costs have been estimated to be $874 billion 5.7% of the annual U.S. G.D.P. Despite these expenditures the care provided to patients with musculoskeletal disorders is highly variable and has regularly been shown to have suboptimal outcomes. The many reasons for this ineffective care include the mutable nature of the prevailing syndromes and their limited and variable understanding. The care rendered by a broad and incongruent group of providers who practice disparate methodologies and employ variable treatments. Disorderedly triage comprised of arbitrary selection of providers, care methodologies, and treatments, which is prone to a range of extraneous influences. Treatments that are unable to apprehend the causative pathological processes, which are therefore progressive, cause irreversible damage to the respective musculoskeletal structures, and result in enduring pain and disability. The overall lack of preventative care and the consequent prevalence of these disorders especially in specific work environments and with certain high-risk life styles. This article makes recommendations for better understanding, prevention, early recognition, timely employment of disease altering therapies, streamlining the existing care, and policy initiatives for waste confinement and improvement. These discernments may improve the overall quality of care provided to these patients, diminish the staggering pain and disability caused, and can reduce the immense costs incurred.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalid M Malik
- University of Illinois, Chicago, United States
- Corresponding Author: Professor of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Illinois, 301 N Harvey Ave., Oak Park IL 60302, Chicago, United States. Tel: +1-3124852938,
| | | | - Farnad Imani
- Pain Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Abstract
Low back pain affects individuals of all ages and is a leading contributor to disease burden worldwide. Despite advancements in assessment and treatment methods, the management of low back pain remains a challenge for researchers and clinicians alike. One reason for the limited success in identifying effective treatments is the large variation in the manifestations, possible causes, precipitating and maintaining factors, course, prognosis and consequences in terms of activity interference and quality of life. However, despite these challenges, steady progress has been achieved in the understanding of back pain, and important steps in the understanding of the psychological and social risk factors, genetics and brain mechanisms of low back pain have been made. These new findings have given impetus to the development of new diagnostic procedures, evidence-based screening methods and more targeted interventions, which underscore the need for a multidisciplinary approach to the management of low back pain that integrates biological, psychological and social aspects.
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Evaluation of the Short- and Long-Term Effectiveness of Pulsed Radiofrequency and Conventional Radiofrequency Performed for Medial Branch Block in Patients with Lumbar Facet Joint Pain. Pain Res Manag 2018; 2018:7492753. [PMID: 30595777 PMCID: PMC6282122 DOI: 10.1155/2018/7492753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Revised: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background Diagnosis of lumbar facet joint disease is the sum of the combinations consisting of history, physical activity, and diagnostic imaging frequently including computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scans. Prevalence of facet-based chronic low back pain is 15–45%. Intra-articular injections with corticosteroid or medial branch block are traditionally used prevalently in the management of chronic low back pain due to lumbar facet joints. However, the evidence levels of these procedures are at either a low or a medium level. Radiofrequency neurolysis of the lumbar medial branch can be used as an alternative in the management of lumbar facet joint pain. There are two types of radiofrequency applications for radiofrequency neurolysis as pulsed radiofrequency and conventional radiofrequency. Materials and Methods Patients with lumbar facet pain were separated into 2 groups. Group 1 (n=75): patients were given pulsed radiofrequency under fluoroscopy. Group 2 (n=43): patients were given conventional radiofrequency under fluoroscopy. Pre-op and post-op 1st, 3rd, and 6th month and 1st and 2nd year Visual Analogue Scale values of all patients were asked, recorded, and statistically compared. Visual Analogue Scale values of the groups in the same months were compared as well. At the end of the second year, Odom criteria of both groups were recorded and statistically compared. Results Preoperation Visual Analogue Scale values and postoperation 1st, 3rd, and 6th month and 1st and 2nd year Visual Analogue Scale values were compared in Group 1 and Group 2, and there was a statistically significant difference between preoperation Visual Analogue Scale values and postoperation 1st, 3rd, and 6th month and 1st and 2nd year Visual Analogue Scale values in both groups. However, the number of repetitions of the operation was higher in Group 1. In the comparison of Odom criteria for both groups at the end of the second year, it was observed that the patients in Group 2 were more satisfied with the treatment. Conclusion Conventional radiofrequency in patients with lumbar facet joint pain for medial branch neurolysis effectively decreases Visual Analogue Scale values in both short and long term. The quality of life and daily activities of patients were better at conventional radiofrequency.
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Rohof O, Chen CK. The response to radiofrequency neurotomy of medial branches including a bipolar system for thoracic facet joints. Scand J Pain 2018; 18:747-753. [PMID: 30001215 DOI: 10.1515/sjpain-2018-0048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Background and aims The evidence for interventional treatment of thoracic facet joint pain remains limited. This is partly due to inconsistency of the path of thoracic medial branches and a lower incidence of thoracic facet pain among spine pain patients. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of bipolar radiofrequency (RF) neurotomy of medial branches for treating chronic thoracic facet joint pain. Methods This is a retrospective record review of all patients diagnosed to have thoracic facet pain with diagnostic block and subsequently treated with bipolar RF neurotomy of medial branch between January 2012 and December 2015. The outcome measures were mean changes in Numeral Rating Scale (NRS) and Pain Disability Index (PDI). Results There were 71 patients with complete data available for analysis. The mean age of the patients was 57.9±11.2 years. The mean duration of pain was 23±10.5 months. The majority of patients (82%) had pain reduction of more than 50% at 12 months after bipolar RF neurotomy. The NRS decreased significantly from baseline of 7.75±1.25 to 2.86±1.53 at 3 months and 2.82±1.29 at 12 months post-procedure (p<0.001. p<0.001, respectively). The PDI improved significantly from 40.92±12.22 to 24.15±9.79, p<0.05). There were no serious adverse effects or complications of the procedure reported in this study. Conclusions Bipolar RF neurotomy of thoracic medial branch is associated with a significant reduction in thoracic facet joint pain. The promising findings from this case series merit further assessment with prospective, randomized controlled trial which will produce a more reliable and accurate finding for its clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olav Rohof
- Orbis Medical Center (Zuyderland Hospital), Sittard Geleen Heerlen, The Netherlands
| | - Chee Kean Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, KPJ Kuching Specialist Hospital, Lot 10420, Block 11, Tabuan Stutong Commercial Centre, Jalan Setia Raja, 93350 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, Phone: +6-082-365777, Fax: +6-082-364666
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Cohen SP, Doshi TL, Constantinescu OC, Zhao Z, Kurihara C, Larkin TM, Griffith SR, Jacobs MB, Kroski WJ, Dawson TC, Fowler IM, White RL, Verdun AJ, Jamison DE, Anderson-White M, Shank SE, Pasquina PF. Effectiveness of Lumbar Facet Joint Blocks and Predictive Value before Radiofrequency Denervation: The Facet Treatment Study (FACTS), a Randomized, Controlled Clinical Trial. Anesthesiology 2018; 129:517-535. [PMID: 29847426 PMCID: PMC6543534 DOI: 10.1097/aln.0000000000002274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
WHAT WE ALREADY KNOW ABOUT THIS TOPIC WHAT THIS ARTICLE TELLS US THAT IS NEW: BACKGROUND:: With facet interventions under scrutiny, the authors' objectives were to determine the effectiveness of different lumbar facet blocks and their ability to predict radiofrequency ablation outcomes. METHODS A total of 229 participants were randomized in a 2:2:1 ratio to receive intraarticular facet injections with bupivacaine and steroid, medial branch blocks, or saline. Those with a positive 1-month outcome (a 2-point or more reduction in average pain score) and score higher than 3 (positive satisfaction) on a 5-point satisfaction scale were followed up to 6 months. Participants in the intraarticular and medial branch block groups with a positive diagnostic block (50% or more relief) who experienced a negative outcome proceeded to the second phase and underwent radiofrequency ablation, while all saline group individuals underwent ablation. Coprimary outcome measures were average reduction in numerical rating scale pain score 1 month after the facet or saline blocks, and average numerical rating scale pain score 3 months after ablation. RESULTS Mean reduction in average numerical rating scale pain score at 1 month was 0.7 ± 1.6 in the intraarticular group, 0.7 ± 1.8 in the medial branch block group, and 0.7 ± 1.5 in the placebo group; P = 0.993. The proportions of positive blocks were higher in the intraarticular (54%) and medial branch (55%) groups than in the placebo group (30%; P = 0.01). Radiofrequency ablation was performed on 135 patients (45, 48, and 42 patients from the intraarticular, medial branch, and saline groups, respectively). The average numerical rating scale pain score at 3 months was 3.0 ± 2.0 in the intraarticular, 3.2 ± 2.5 in the medial branch, and 3.5 ± 1.9 in the control group (P = 0.493). At 3 months, the proportions of positive responders in the intraarticular, medial branch block, and placebo groups were 51%, 56%, and 24% for the intraarticular, medial branch, and placebo groups, respectively (P = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS This study establishes that facet blocks are not therapeutic. The higher responder rates in the treatment groups suggest a hypothesis that facet blocks might provide prognostic value before radiofrequency ablation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven P Cohen
- From the Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine (S.P.C., T.L.D., M.A.-W.) the Department of Neurology and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (S.P.C.) The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; Department of Anesthesiology (S.P.C., S.R.G.) Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (S.P.C., M.B.J., W.J.K., P.F.P.) Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland; Department of Surgery, Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, Landstuhl, Germany (O.C.C.) Department of Neurology, District of Columbia Veterans Affairs Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia (Z.Z.) Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Service, Department of Orthopedic Surgery (P.F.P.) Pain Treatment Center, Anesthesia Service, Department of Surgery (A.J.V., C.K., D.E.J., S.R.G.) Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland; Parkway Neuroscience and Spine Institute, Hagerstown, Maryland (T.M.L., S.E.S.) Puget Sound Veteran's Hospital, Seattle, Washington (T.C.D.) Department of Pain Medicine, David Grant U.S. Air Force Medical Center, Travis Air Force Base, California (R.L.W.) Pain Medicine Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Naval Medical Center-San Diego, San Diego, California (I.M.F.) Department of Anesthesiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington (T.C.D.)
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Wáng YXJ, Wu AM, Ruiz Santiago F, Nogueira-Barbosa MH. Informed appropriate imaging for low back pain management: A narrative review. J Orthop Translat 2018; 15:21-34. [PMID: 30258783 PMCID: PMC6148737 DOI: 10.1016/j.jot.2018.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2018] [Revised: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Most patients with acute low back pain (LBP), with or without radiculopathy, have substantial improvements in pain and function in the first 4 weeks, and they do not require routine imaging. Imaging is considered in those patients who have had up to 6 weeks of medical management and physical therapy that resulted in little or no improvement in their LBP. It is also considered for those patients presenting with suspicion for serious underlying conditions, such as cauda equina syndrome, malignancy, fracture and infection. In western country primary care settings, the prevalence has been suggested to be 0.7% for metastatic cancer, 0.01% for spinal infection and 0.04% for cauda equina syndrome. Of the small proportion of patients with any of these conditions, almost all have an identifiable risk factor. Osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (4%) and inflammatory spine disease (<5%) may cause LBP, but these conditions typically carry lower diagnostic urgency. Imaging is an important driver of LBP care costs, not only because of the direct costs of the test procedures but also because of the downstream effects. Unnecessary imaging can lead to additional tests, follow-up, referrals and may result in an invasive procedure of limited or questionable benefit. Imaging should be delayed for 6 weeks in patients with nonspecific LBP without reasonable suspicion for serious disease. The translational potential of this article: Diagnostic imaging studies should be performed only in patients who have severe or progressive neurologic deficits or are suspected of having a serious or specific underlying condition. Radiologists can play a critical role in decision support related to appropriateness of imaging requests, and accurately reporting the potential clinical significance or insignificance of imaging findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yì Xiáng J Wáng
- Department of Imaging and Interventional Radiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Ai-Min Wu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Zhejiang Spine Surgery Centre, Orthopaedic Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of the Wenzhou Medical University, The Second School of Medicine Wenzhou Medical University, The Key Orthopaedic Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou, China
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Park CJ, Shin YD, Lim SW, Bae YM. The effect of facet joint injection on lumbar spinal stenosis with radiculopathy. Pak J Med Sci 2018; 34:968-973. [PMID: 30190763 PMCID: PMC6115579 DOI: 10.12669/pjms.344.15010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Facet Joint Injection (FJI) is known to be effective in axial back pain, but the purpose of this study was to assess the effects of FJI on patients treated with it among those with Lumbar Spinal Stenosis (LSS). Methods: We conducted a retrospective database analysis and investigated electronic medical records of 125 LSS patients treated with FJI in the pain clinic of Chungbuk National University Hospital from November 2, 2016 to July 31, 2017. Sex, age, histories of low back surgery, complaining of neurogenic claudication, symptomatic sites of patients, FJI sites, number of sites of FJI, triamcinolone dosage, Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) before and after treatment, facet joint capsule rupture during treatment, and improvement of neurogenic claudication after treatment, were examined. Results: Among 125 patients, we investigated 91 patients who met the criteria. There was significant difference in NRS before and after treatment (p<0.000). Forty one patients with reduction of NRS more than 30% after FJI were allocated to effect group. FJI was more effective in patients who did not have the surgery (p=0.044), as well as those who showed an improved neurogenic claudication after treatment (p=0.001). Other measured values did not show statistical significances. Conclusions: FJI has relatively a lower risk and is simpler in terms of techniques than other interventional treatments performed within the spinal canal. Therefore, FJI may be another interventional treatment option in patients with pain by LSS. In the future, studies for FJI indication in LSS patients should be additionally required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chan Jin Park
- Chan Jin Park, MD. Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Chungbuk National University Hospital, College of Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Korea
| | - Young Duck Shin
- Prof. Dr. Young Duck Shin, MD, PhD. Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Chungbuk National University Hospital, College of Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Korea
| | - Seung Woon Lim
- Seung Woon Lim, MD, PhD. Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Chungbuk National University Hospital, College of Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Korea
| | - Yoo Mee Bae
- Yoo Mee Bae, MD. Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Chungbuk National University Hospital, College of Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Korea
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Hustinx N, Steyaert A, le Polain de Waroux B, Forget P. DOSE AREA PRODUCT VALUES OF FLUOROSCOPICALLY GUIDED PAIN MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES: COMPARISON OF A BELGIAN TEACHING HOSPITAL WITH NATIONAL DIAGNOSTIC REFERENCE LEVELS. RADIATION PROTECTION DOSIMETRY 2018; 179:271-274. [PMID: 29216390 DOI: 10.1093/rpd/ncx271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/23/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
In 2011, national diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) were proposed for pain management fluoroscopic procedures in Belgium. The primary goal of this work is to compare the dose area product values (DAP) recorded at the Saint-Luc University Hospital to these DRLs. From 2012 to 2015, 7664 interventional pain management procedures (4740 epidural, 2097 medial branch and 807 transforaminal infiltrations) were performed. Uni/multivariable analyses were done regarding the influence of different factors. The fluoroscopy duration and the DAP are lower to the DRLs (p < 0.001). From 7644 procedures' DAP, 1431 (18.7%) were higher than the DRLs: 1397 epidural (29.5%), 16 medial branch (0.8%) and 18 transforaminal infiltrations (2.2%) (p < 0.001 between procedures). The main factor that significantly modifies DAP, as duration, is the practitioner. Additionally, we obtained [IQR: 25-75] values for epidural [0.0174-0.055 mGy m2], medial branch block [0.0194-0.0472] and transforaminal infiltrations [0.0499-0.1067 mGy m2] (p < 0.05 vs. DRLs, respectively, 0.05, 0.25 and 0.3 mGy m2). Systematic use of contrast confirmation significantly increases DAP (p < 0.001). This retrospective analysis shows differences in DAP, mainly driven by the practitioner. This suggests the existence of modifiable factors. Programs aiming to determine these factors to reduce this DAP are justified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Hustinx
- Department of Anesthesiology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Arnaud Steyaert
- Department of Anesthesiology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Patrice Forget
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
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Sencan S, Ozcan-Eksi EE, Cil H, Tay B, Berven S, Burch S, Deviren V, Demir-Deviren S. The effect of transforaminal epidural steroid injections in patients with spondylolisthesis. J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil 2018; 30:841-846. [PMID: 28372316 DOI: 10.3233/bmr-160543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transforaminal epidural steroid injection (TFE) is a widely accepted non-surgical treatment for pain in patients with spondylolisthesis. However, the effectiveness of TFE has not been compared in patients with degenerative (DS) and isthmic spondylolisthesis (IS). OBJECTIVE To compare the effectiveness of bilateral TFEs in DS and IS. METHODS Patients who underwent bilateral TFEs for spondylolisthesis at University of California San Francisco Orthopaedic Institute from 2009 to 2014 were evaluated retrospectively. RESULTS DS patients (120 female, 51 male) were significantly older and had higher comorbidity than those with IS (18 female, 14 male). They had better pain relief after TFE than patients with IS (72.11 ± 27.46% vs 54.39 ± 34.31%; p = 0.009). The number of TFEs, the mean duration of pain relief after TFE, follow-up periods, translation and facet joint widening were similar in DS and IS groups (p > 0.05). DS group had higher successful treatment rate (66.1% vs 46.9%, p = 0.009) and longer duration of pain relief (181.29 ± 241.37 vs 140.07 ± 183.62 days, p = 0.065) compared to IS group. CONCLUSIONS Bilateral TFEs at the level of spondylolisthesis effectively decreased pain in patients. TFEs provided better pain relief for longer duration in patients with DS than for those with IS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Savas Sencan
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Marmara University, Pain Management, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Emel E Ozcan-Eksi
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Hemra Cil
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Bobby Tay
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sigurd Berven
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Shane Burch
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Vedat Deviren
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sibel Demir-Deviren
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Ellard DR, Underwood M, Achana F, Antrobus JH, Balasubramanian S, Brown S, Cairns M, Griffin J, Griffiths F, Haywood K, Hutchinson C, Lall R, Petrou S, Stallard N, Tysall C, Walsh DA, Sandhu H. Facet joint injections for people with persistent non-specific low back pain (Facet Injection Study): a feasibility study for a randomised controlled trial. Health Technol Assess 2018. [PMID: 28639551 DOI: 10.3310/hta21300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) 2009 guidelines for persistent low back pain (LBP) do not recommend the injection of therapeutic substances into the back as a treatment for LBP because of the absence of evidence for their effectiveness. This feasibility study aimed to provide a stable platform that could be used to evaluate a randomised controlled trial (RCT) on the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of intra-articular facet joint injections (FJIs) when added to normal care. OBJECTIVES To explore the feasibility of running a RCT to test the hypothesis that, for people with suspected facet joint back pain, adding the option of intra-articular FJIs (local anaesthetic and corticosteroids) to best usual non-invasive care is clinically effective and cost-effective. DESIGN The trial was a mixed design. The RCT pilot protocol development involved literature reviews and a consensus conference followed by a randomised pilot study with an embedded mixed-methods process evaluation. SETTING Five NHS acute trusts in England. PARTICIPANTS Participants were patients aged ≥ 18 years with moderately troublesome LBP present (> 6 months), who had failed previous conservative treatment and who had suspected facet joint pain. The study aimed to recruit 150 participants (approximately 30 per site). Participants were randomised sequentially by a remote service to FJIs combined with 'best usual care' (BUC) or BUC alone. INTERVENTIONS All participants were to receive six sessions of a bespoke BUC rehabilitation package. Those randomised into the intervention arm were, in addition, given FJIs with local anaesthetic and steroids (at up to six injection sites). Randomisation occurred at the end of the first BUC session. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Process and clinical outcomes. Clinical outcomes included a measurement of level of pain on a scale from 0 to 10, which was collected daily and then weekly via text messaging (or through a written diary). Questionnaire follow-up was at 3 months. RESULTS Fifty-two stakeholders attended the consensus meeting. Agreement informed several statistical questions and three design considerations: diagnosis, the process of FJI and the BUC package and informing the design for the randomised pilot study. Recruitment started on 26 June 2015 and was terminated by the funder (as a result of poor recruitment) on 11 December 2015. In total, 26 participants were randomised. Process data illuminate some of the reasons for recruitment problems but also show that trial processes after enrolment ran smoothly. No between-group analysis was carried out. All pain-related outcomes show the expected improvement between baseline and follow-up. The mean total cost of the overall treatment package (injection £419.22 and BUC £264.00) was estimated at £683.22 per participant. This is similar to a NHS tariff cost for a course of FJIs of £686.84. LIMITATIONS Poor recruitment was a limiting factor. CONCLUSIONS This feasibility study achieved consensus on the main challenges in a trial of FJIs for people with persistent non-specific low back pain. FUTURE WORK Further work is needed to test recruitment from alternative clinical situations. TRIAL REGISTRATION EudraCT 2014-000682-50 and Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN93184143. FUNDING This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 21, No. 30. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R Ellard
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Martin Underwood
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Felix Achana
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - James Hl Antrobus
- South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust, Warwick Hospital, Warwick, UK
| | - Shyam Balasubramanian
- Pain Management Service, University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire, Coventry, UK
| | - Sally Brown
- University/User Teaching and Research Action Partnership (UNTRAP), University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Melinda Cairns
- Department of Allied Health Professions and Midwifery, School of Health and Social Work, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - James Griffin
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Frances Griffiths
- Social Science and Systems in Health, Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Kirstie Haywood
- Royal College of Nursing Research Institute, Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Charles Hutchinson
- Population Evidence and Technologies Room, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, University Hospitals of Coventry and Warwickshire, Coventry, UK
| | - Ranjit Lall
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Stavros Petrou
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Nigel Stallard
- Statistics and Epidemiology, Division of Health Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Colin Tysall
- University/User Teaching and Research Action Partnership (UNTRAP), University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - David A Walsh
- Arthritis Research UK Pain Centre, Academic Rheumatology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Harbinder Sandhu
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
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Odonkor CA, Chen Y, Adekoya P, Marascalchi BJ, Chaudhry-Richter H, Tang T, Abruzzese C, Cohen BK, Cohen SP. Inciting Events Associated With Lumbar Facet Joint Pain. Anesth Analg 2018; 126:280-288. [DOI: 10.1213/ane.0000000000002242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Paholpak P, Dedeogullari E, Lee C, Tamai K, Barkoh K, Sessumpun K, Wang JC, Buser Z. Do modic changes, disc degeneration, translation and angular motion affect facet osteoarthritis of the lumbar spine. Eur J Radiol 2018; 98:193-199. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2017.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Do KH, Ahn SH, Cho YW, Chang MC. Comparison of intra-articular lumbar facet joint pulsed radiofrequency and intra-articular lumbar facet joint corticosteroid injection for management of lumbar facet joint pain: A randomized controlled trial. Medicine (Baltimore) 2017; 96:e6524. [PMID: 28353611 PMCID: PMC5380295 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000006524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to demonstrate the effect of intra-articular (IA) lumbar facet joint (LFJ) pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) for the management of LFJ pain, and to compare the effect of IA LFJ PRF to IA corticosteroid injection (ICI). Pathology in the LFJ is a common source of lower back pain (LBP). It is responsible for chronic LBP in approximately 15% to 45% of patients. It has been reported that PRF stimulation can effectively reduce refractory joint pain. METHODS Sixty patients with LFJ pain were recruited and randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups: the IA PRF group and the ICI group. There were 30 patients in each group. At pretreatment, 2 weeks, 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment, we assessed the severity of LBP using a numeric rating scale (NRS). RESULTS Compared with the pretreatment NRS scores, patients in both groups showed a significant decrease in NRS scores at 2 weeks, and 1, 3, and 6 months after each treatment. Between groups, changes in the NRS scores were significantly different over time. At 2 weeks and 1 month after each procedure, the NRS score after ICI was significantly lower than that after the PRF stimulation. However, at 3 and 6 months after the procedures, the decrements of NRS scores were not significantly different between the 2 groups. Six months after treatment, about half of patients in both groups reported successful pain relief (pain relief of ≥50%). CONCLUSION In the current study, both IA PRF stimulation and ICI into the LFJ significantly relieved LFJ pain. Their effects persisted for at least 6 months after the procedure. Thus, IA PRF is a useful therapeutic option for the management of LFJ pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung Hee Do
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Veterans Health Service Medical Center, Seoul
| | - Sang Ho Ahn
- Dr Ahn's Spine & Pain Clinic, and Dr Ahn's Spine and Pain Institute, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun Woo Cho
- Dr Ahn's Spine & Pain Clinic, and Dr Ahn's Spine and Pain Institute, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Cheol Chang
- Dr Ahn's Spine & Pain Clinic, and Dr Ahn's Spine and Pain Institute, Daegu, Republic of Korea
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Sartoris R, Orlandi D, Corazza A, Sconfienza LM, Arcidiacono A, Bernardi SP, Schiaffino S, Turtulici G, Caruso P, Silvestri E. In vivo feasibility of real-time MR-US fusion imaging lumbar facet joint injections. J Ultrasound 2017; 20:23-31. [PMID: 28298941 DOI: 10.1007/s40477-016-0233-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2016] [Accepted: 12/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Traditionally, facet joint injections (FJI) are performed under fluoroscopic or computed tomography (CT) guidance, mainly due to the deep anatomical location and the presence of bony landmarks. Fusion imaging technology, which couples the ultrasound scan with the corresponding CT or magnetic resonance (MR) image obtained from the diagnostic examination and reformatted in real time according to the ultrasound scanning plane, allows to combine the panoramic view and the elevated anatomical detail of MR or CT with the ease of use of ultrasound without patient exposure to ionizing radiation. METHODS Thirty eight patients (24 females; mean age ± SD: 64 ± 9 years) received MR fusion-assisted ultrasound-guided FJI of 1 ml of a mixture of local anaesthetic and corticosteroid using a ultrasound machine (Logiq E9, GE Healthcare) equipped with a GPS-enhanced fusion imaging technology which couples real-time B-mode images with those of the previous recent diagnostic MR examination. Low-dose CT needle positioning confirmation was performed in the first 28 patients. Patients' pain was recorded using a visual analogue scale (VAS), at baseline and at 2, 4 and 8 weeks. RESULTS All fusion imaging-guided injections were performed successfully. Out of 112, 96 FJI had optimal intra-articular needle positioning (accuracy: 85.7%). Patients VAS significantly decreases after the procedure with no differences among who received CT needle positioning control and who did not receive it. No major complications were observed. CONCLUSIONS Ultrasound needle guidance with MR fusion assistance allows for safe and effective injection of degenerative facet joint disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Sartoris
- Scuola di Specializzazione in Radiodiagnostica, Università degli studi di Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Davide Orlandi
- S.C. Diagnostica per Immagini, Radiologia, Ospedale Evangelico Internazionale, Corso Solferino 2A, 16100 Genoa, Italy
| | - Angelo Corazza
- Unità Operativa di Radiologia Diagnostica ed Interventistica, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Milan, Italy
- Scuola di dottorato in Neuroscienze, Università degli Studi di Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Luca Maria Sconfienza
- Unità Operativa di Radiologia Diagnostica ed Interventistica, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Milan, Italy
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Alice Arcidiacono
- Scuola di Specializzazione in Radiodiagnostica, Università degli studi di Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Silvia Perugin Bernardi
- Scuola di Specializzazione in Radiodiagnostica, Università degli studi di Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Simone Schiaffino
- Scuola di Specializzazione in Radiodiagnostica, Università degli studi di Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Giovanni Turtulici
- S.C. Diagnostica per Immagini, Radiologia, Ospedale Evangelico Internazionale, Corso Solferino 2A, 16100 Genoa, Italy
| | - Pietro Caruso
- S.C. Diagnostica per Immagini, Radiologia, Ospedale Evangelico Internazionale, Corso Solferino 2A, 16100 Genoa, Italy
| | - Enzo Silvestri
- S.C. Diagnostica per Immagini, Radiologia, Ospedale Evangelico Internazionale, Corso Solferino 2A, 16100 Genoa, Italy
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El Abd O, Amadera JED, Pimentel DC, Bhargava A. Nonsurgical Treatment (Indications, Limitations, Outcomes): Injections. HIP JOINT RESTORATION 2017:299-314. [DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4614-0694-5_28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
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Dixon RG, Khiatani V, Statler JD, Walser EM, Midia M, Miller DL, Bartal G, Collins JD, Gross KA, Stecker MS, Nikolic B. Society of Interventional Radiology: Occupational Back and Neck Pain and the Interventional Radiologist. J Vasc Interv Radiol 2016; 28:195-199. [PMID: 27993508 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvir.2016.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2016] [Revised: 10/22/2016] [Accepted: 10/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Robert G Dixon
- Department of Radiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
| | - Vishal Khiatani
- Department of Radiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - John D Statler
- Virginia Interventional and Vascular Associates, Fredericksburg, Virginia
| | - Eric M Walser
- Department of Radiology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
| | - Mehran Midia
- Department of Interventional Radiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Donald L Miller
- Center for Devices and Radiological Health, Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring
| | - Gabriel Bartal
- Department of Radiology, Meir Medical Center, Kfar Saba, Israel
| | - Jeremy D Collins
- Department of Radiology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Kathleen A Gross
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Greater Baltimore Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Michael S Stecker
- Division of Angiography Interventional Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Boris Nikolic
- Department of Radiology, Stratton Medical Center, Albany, New York
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Abstract
STUDY DESIGN This is a feasibility study to confirm the design, patient population, and the surgical technique for FENIX implants. OBJECTIVE This study evaluated the safety and the clinical and radiologic performance of bilaterally implanted FENIX facet resurfacing device. INTRODUCTION Facet joint osteoarthritis is responsible for up to 30% of chronic low back pain. Arthroplasty is a surgical treatment option that aims to relieve pain while maintaining or restoring motion. METHODS A total of 8 consecutive patients with proven single segmental bilateral lumbar facet joint osteoarthritis as unique pain generator received a bilateral implantation of the FENIX device. Correct device placement and mobility preservation were assessed on x-ray at 6 weeks and at 6, 12, and 24 months after implantation. Magnetic resonance imaging at 12 and 24 months after surgery assessed the bony ingrowth and computed tomography-single photon emision computed tomography was repeated at 6 months to assess evolution of the preoperative inflamed facet joints. The Oswestry disability index, pain visual analogue scale, and the need for analgesic medication were the parameters used for clinical assessment. RESULTS At 24 months after surgery, 7 of the 8 patients were found to have all implants in place and all assessed parameters were found to be normal. Patients experienced significant pain relief and functionality improvement. Mobility was maintained and no Modic changes were noted, either at the index or at the adjacent levels. No "hot" lesions at the implanted levels were observed on computed tomography-single photon emision computed tomography. One of the 48 (2%) implants was found to be dislocated at 6 months follow-up. CONCLUSIONS The FENIX facet resurfacing technique might be considered in the future as a surgical treatment of well-selected patients suffering from chronic low back pain because of facet joint osteoarthritis. A modification of the superior implant should provide an initial firm fixation preventing implant dislocation.
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Allegri M, Montella S, Salici F, Valente A, Marchesini M, Compagnone C, Baciarello M, Manferdini ME, Fanelli G. Mechanisms of low back pain: a guide for diagnosis and therapy. F1000Res 2016; 5. [PMID: 27408698 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.8105.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a chronic pain syndrome in the lower back region, lasting for at least 3 months. CLBP represents the second leading cause of disability worldwide being a major welfare and economic problem. The prevalence of CLBP in adults has increased more than 100% in the last decade and continues to increase dramatically in the aging population, affecting both men and women in all ethnic groups, with a significant impact on functional capacity and occupational activities. It can also be influenced by psychological factors, such as stress, depression and/or anxiety. Given this complexity, the diagnostic evaluation of patients with CLBP can be very challenging and requires complex clinical decision-making. Answering the question "what is the pain generator" among the several structures potentially involved in CLBP is a key factor in the management of these patients, since a mis-diagnosis can generate therapeutical mistakes. Traditionally, the notion that the etiology of 80% to 90% of LBP cases is unknown has been mistaken perpetuated across decades. In most cases, low back pain can be attributed to specific pain generator, with its own characteristics and with different therapeutical opportunity. Here we discuss about radicular pain, facet Joint pain, sacro-iliac pain, pain related to lumbar stenosis, discogenic pain. Our article aims to offer to the clinicians a simple guidance to identify pain generators in a safer and faster way, relying a correct diagnosis and further therapeutical approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Allegri
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Parma, Parma, Italy; Anaesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Therapy Service, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Parma Hospital, Parma, Italy
| | - Silvana Montella
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Fabiana Salici
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Adriana Valente
- Anaesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Therapy Service, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Parma Hospital, Parma, Italy
| | - Maurizio Marchesini
- Anaesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Therapy Service, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Parma Hospital, Parma, Italy
| | - Christian Compagnone
- Anaesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Therapy Service, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Parma Hospital, Parma, Italy
| | - Marco Baciarello
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Parma, Parma, Italy; Anaesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Therapy Service, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Parma Hospital, Parma, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Manferdini
- Anaesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Therapy Service, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Parma Hospital, Parma, Italy
| | - Guido Fanelli
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Parma, Parma, Italy; Anaesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Therapy Service, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Parma Hospital, Parma, Italy
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Allegri M, Montella S, Salici F, Valente A, Marchesini M, Compagnone C, Baciarello M, Manferdini ME, Fanelli G. Mechanisms of low back pain: a guide for diagnosis and therapy. F1000Res 2016; 5. [PMID: 27408698 PMCID: PMC4926733 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.8105.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a chronic pain syndrome in the lower back region, lasting for at least 3 months. CLBP represents the second leading cause of disability worldwide being a major welfare and economic problem. The prevalence of CLBP in adults has increased more than 100% in the last decade and continues to increase dramatically in the aging population, affecting both men and women in all ethnic groups, with a significant impact on functional capacity and occupational activities. It can also be influenced by psychological factors, such as stress, depression and/or anxiety. Given this complexity, the diagnostic evaluation of patients with CLBP can be very challenging and requires complex clinical decision-making. Answering the question "what is the pain generator" among the several structures potentially involved in CLBP is a key factor in the management of these patients, since a mis-diagnosis can generate therapeutical mistakes. Traditionally, the notion that the etiology of 80% to 90% of LBP cases is unknown has been mistaken perpetuated across decades. In most cases, low back pain can be attributed to specific pain generator, with its own characteristics and with different therapeutical opportunity. Here we discuss about radicular pain, facet Joint pain, sacro-iliac pain, pain related to lumbar stenosis, discogenic pain. Our article aims to offer to the clinicians a simple guidance to identify pain generators in a safer and faster way, relying a correct diagnosis and further therapeutical approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Allegri
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Parma, Parma, Italy; Anaesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Therapy Service, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Parma Hospital, Parma, Italy
| | - Silvana Montella
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Fabiana Salici
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Adriana Valente
- Anaesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Therapy Service, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Parma Hospital, Parma, Italy
| | - Maurizio Marchesini
- Anaesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Therapy Service, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Parma Hospital, Parma, Italy
| | - Christian Compagnone
- Anaesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Therapy Service, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Parma Hospital, Parma, Italy
| | - Marco Baciarello
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Parma, Parma, Italy; Anaesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Therapy Service, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Parma Hospital, Parma, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Manferdini
- Anaesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Therapy Service, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Parma Hospital, Parma, Italy
| | - Guido Fanelli
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Parma, Parma, Italy; Anaesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Therapy Service, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Parma Hospital, Parma, Italy
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Lindquist J, Bäckryd E. Pulsed radiofrequency in clinical practice - A retrospective analysis of 238 patients with chronic non-cancer pain treated at an academic tertiary pain centre. Scand J Pain 2016; 12:68-73. [PMID: 28850497 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjpain.2016.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2016] [Revised: 04/16/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Pulsed radiofrequency is a non-neurodestructive invasive pain treatment which, in contrast to conventional continuous radiofrequency treatment, does not entail nerve tissue destruction. The aim of this study was to retrospectively analyse the short-term benefits of a broad use of pulsed radiofrequency in clinical practice. METHODS The medical records of all patients treated with pulsed radiofrequency, or who received a diagnostic test block with a local anaesthetic in view of such a treatment, were retrospectively analysed. The patients had been referred to a tertiary pain centre in Sweden. The treatment effect one month after pulsed radiofrequency was retrospectively graded as follows, based on the wordings of the medical records: major improvement; minor improvement; no change; or worsened. RESULTS A total of 238 patients received 587 interventions from 2009 to 2014. Chronic low back pain (CLBP) was by far the most common treatment indication (57% of patients), followed by CLBP with sciatica (9%). The age at first pulsed radiofrequency was 55 (15-94) years (mean, range), and 65% were female. Thirty-six patients (15%) underwent only a diagnostic test block using a local anaesthetic, i.e., the test block did not lead to treatment with pulsed radiofrequency. A total of 445 pulsed radiofrequency interventions were performed on 202 patients. Dichotomizing data into responders (i.e., minor or major improvement) and non-responders (i.e., worsened or no change), we found that, out of 63 responders to a median branch diagnostic test block (either at the cervical or lumbar level), 33 were responders to the first following median branch pulsed radiofrequency. Hence the positive predictive value of a median branch test block was 52%. In 127 patients, the lumbar level was targeted for median branch pulsed radiofrequency because of clinically suspected lumbar facetogenic pain. Looking at the first treatment, 30% experienced major improvement after 1 month, 16% minor improvement, 36% no change, 5% a worsened situation, and the effect was not assessable in 13% of patients. Lone dorsal root ganglion L2-treatment for suspected discogenic lumbar pain was done on 39 patients and, after one month, the effect was not assessable in 17% of patients, 14% had major improvement, 14% minor improvement, and 55% had no change. In 40 patients, a dorsal root ganglion or a peripheral nerve was targeted because of a non-axial chronic pain condition. There was a plethora of indications, but the most common was by far related to some form of neuropathic pain (52% of interventions, mainly because of neuralgia), followed by chronic nociceptive shoulder pain (8% of interventions). CONCLUSIONS This study shows that, after one month, the effect size of a broad and indiscriminate clinical use of pulsed radiofrequency is rather small. IMPLICATIONS The clinical effectiveness of pulsed radiofrequency has to be investigated further in carefully selected and more homogenous patient groups, in order to define effective treatment niches for this nondestructive invasive treatment method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Lindquist
- Pain and Rehabilitation Centre, and Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Emmanuel Bäckryd
- Pain and Rehabilitation Centre, and Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.
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Pacetti M, Fiaschi P, Gennaro S. Percutaneous radiofrequency thermocoagulation of dorsal ramus branches as a treatment of "lumbar facet syndrome"--How I do it. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2016; 158:995-8. [PMID: 26979181 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-016-2759-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2015] [Accepted: 02/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low back pain is an extremely common and often chronic condition. In some cases, this is due to an irritative arthropathy of zygapophyseal joint involving the medial branch of the dorsal ramus of the spinal nerve. Percutaneous radiofrequency thermocoagulation appears to be the most effective treatment to date, among a range of different treatments. In this paper, the technique is described as performed at out institution. METHODS In supine position and under fluoroscopic control, a radiofrequency electrode is inserted into different articular zygapophyseal complexes to thermocoagulate ramifications of the medial branch of the dorsal primary ramus of the spinal nerve. CONCLUSIONS Fluoroscopic-guided percutaneous radiofrequency thermocoagulation of dorsal rami branches is a safe and reliable technique for the treatment of lumbar facet syndrome. Careful selection of patients based on clinical presentation and positive anesthetic block test are key points for an optimum outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Pacetti
- School of Neurosurgery, IRCCS Ospedale San Martino- IST, Università di Torino, Università degli studi di Genova, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Pietro Fiaschi
- School of Neurosurgery, IRCCS Ospedale San Martino- IST, Università di Torino, Università degli studi di Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Sergio Gennaro
- U.O. Neurochirurgia, IRCCS Ospedale San Martino- IST, Genoa, Italy
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