Abstract
Background: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of the medial branch nerves that innervate the facet joints is a well-established treatment modality; however, studies to determine the optimal radiofrequency ablation temperature are lacking. A wide range (70 to 90°C) has been used. This study aimed to compare outcomes with two set temperatures for the lumbar facet medial branch ablation, 90 and 80°C. Methods: This retrospective study compared the degree of patient self-reported functional improvement relief, postoperative opioid dose changes, as well as duration among lumbar facet medial branch (RFA) patients who had the procedures performed at 80 or 90°C. Results: Patients who underwent the procedure at 90°C had 3.1 (95% CI 1.7, 6.5) times the odds (P = 0.0004) of reporting functional improvement of at least 50% when compared to those who underwent neurotomy at 80°C. For self-reported functional improvement greater or equal to 75%, the results were sustained with an odds ratio of 2.8 (95% CI 1.2, 5.7) favoring those with 90°C temperature neurotomy (P = 0.002). Conclusion: There seems to be significant functional improvement associated with temp of 90°C compared to 80°C, with no added risk of complications. Randomized controlled studies are warranted.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 961-968 |
Number of pages | 8 |
Journal | Pain Practice |
Volume | 16 |
Issue number | 8 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Nov 1 2016 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- facet denervation
- facet-mediated back pain
- low back pain
- medial branch
- neurotomy
- optimal temperature
- outcomes
- radiofrequency ablation
- radiofrequency ablation
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine