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Klessinger S, Casser HR, Gillner S, Koepp H, Kopf A, Legat M, Meiler K, Norda H, Schneider M, Scholz M, Slotty PJ, Tronnier V, Vazan M, Wiechert K. Radiofrequency Denervation of the Spine and the Sacroiliac Joint: A Systematic Review based on the Grades of Recommendations, Assesment, Development, and Evaluation Approach Resulting in a German National Guideline. Global Spine J 2024:21925682241230922. [PMID: 38321700 DOI: 10.1177/21925682241230922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Systematic review of the literature and subsequent meta-analysis for the development of a new guideline. OBJECTIVES This manuscript summarizes the recommendations from a new clinical guideline published by the German Spine Society. It covers the current evidence on recommendations regarding the indication, test blocks and use of radiofrequency denervation. The guidelines aim is to improve patient care and efficiency of the procedure. METHODS A multidisciplinary working group formulated recommendations based on the Grades of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach and the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II (AGREE II) instrument. RESULTS 20 clinical questions were defined for guideline development, with 87.5% consensus achieved by committee members for one recommendation and 100% consensus for all other topics. Specific questions that were addressed included clinical history, examination and imaging, conservative treatment before injections, diagnostic blocks, the injected medications, the cut-off value in pain-reduction for a diagnostic block as well as the number of blocks, image guidance, the cannula trajectories, the lesion size, stimulation, repeat radiofrequency denervation, sedation, cessation or continuation of anticoagulants, the influence of metal hardware, and ways to mitigate complications. CONCLUSION Radiofrequency (RF) denervation of the spine and the SI joint may provide benefit to well-selected individuals. The recommendations of this guideline are based on very low to moderate quality of evidence as well as professional consensus. The guideline working groups recommend that research efforts in relation to all aspects of management of facet joint pain and SI joint pain should be intensified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan Klessinger
- Neurochirurgie Biberach, Biberach, Germany
- Universitätsklinikum Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | | | | | - Holger Koepp
- Wirbelsäulenzentrum, St Josefs-Hospital, Wiesbaden, Germany
| | - Andreas Kopf
- Klinik für Anästhesiologie mit Schwerpunkt operative Intensivmedizin, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | - Matti Scholz
- ATOS Orthopädische Klinik Braunfels GmbH & Co KG, Braunfels, Germany
| | | | | | - Martin Vazan
- Wirbelsäulen- und Rückenzentrum Dresden, Praxis für Neurochirurgie, Dresden, Germany
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Moka E, Allam AES, Rekatsina M, Abed L, Paladini A, AlKharabsheh A, Vadalouca A, Varrassi G. Current Approaches to Four Challenging Pain Syndromes. Cureus 2023; 15:e45573. [PMID: 37868397 PMCID: PMC10586888 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.45573] [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: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
During a conference of pain specialists, some of the experts addressed the potential management of four prevalent but difficult painful conditions, namely, chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP), knee osteoarthritis, chest trauma, and facet joint arthropathy. In all cases, the conditions posed challenges in accurate diagnoses as well as safe, effective treatments, especially using locoregional blocks. It is not clear why some surgical patients develop CPSP and others do not, although some risk factors have been identified. More importantly, the transitional phase of pain from acute to chronic deserves greater scrutiny. It appears as if more aggressive and more effective perioperative and postoperative analgesia could help mitigate or possibly prevent CPSP. Knee osteoarthritis is prevalent but is often managed pharmacologically and then with joint replacement; many patients simply live with the condition which can be viewed as a disease of the entire joint. New approaches with intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid, platelet-rich plasma, and botulinum toxin may provide safe, effective, and durable pain control. Chest trauma can be extremely painful and a source of morbidity, but its management tends to rely on watchful waiting and drug therapy. New approaches to regional nerve blocks can be beneficial and may reduce troublesome symptoms such as the inability to cough or clear the lungs. Facet joint arthropathy is very prevalent among older people but is not completely clarified. It may be the source of intense pain with limited management strategies. The role of nerve blocks in facet joint arthropathy is an important new addition to the armamentarium of pain management, particularly for geriatric patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Moka
- Department of Anesthesiology, Creta InterClinic Hospital, Herakleion, GRC
| | - Abdallah El-Sayed Allam
- Morphological Madrid Research Center (MoMaRC), UltraDissection Spain EchoTraining School, Madrid, ESP
- Physical Medicine, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Tanta University Hospitals & Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, EGY
| | | | - Lynda Abed
- Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Djilali Bounaama Douera Hospital University, Algiers, DZA
| | - Antonella Paladini
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences (MESVA, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, ITA
| | - Abdullah AlKharabsheh
- King Abdullah University Hospital, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Amman, JOR
| | - Athina Vadalouca
- Pain and Palliative Care Center, Athens Medical Hospital, Athens, GRC
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3
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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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Wu C, Yu J, Xu G, Bao G, Zhang J, Xue P, Jiang J, Chen J, Chen C, Hong H, Cui Z. Wnt16 protects chondrocytes from lumbar facet joint osteoarthritis through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in low back pain patients. Somatosens Mot Res 2021; 38:339-346. [PMID: 34553673 DOI: 10.1080/08990220.2021.1977267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Low back pain (LBP) is a long-lasting and chronic symptom without any exact cause. This study attempts to propose a new staging system based on the original grading system combined with pathological results and clinical symptoms to better clarify the dynamic evolution of LBP related to cartilage degeneration during facet joint osteoarthritis (FJOA). To explore a potential target for diagnosis, treatment, and drug intervention of facet joint osteoarthritis related LBP via protecting chondrocytes. MATERIALS AND METHODS All the facet joints were divided into 4 groups according to our new degenerative staging system based on Weishaupt grade, CT and MRI. Collect the facet joint samples from patients whom suffered lumbar fusion surgery for lumbar disc herniation. Molecular biology experiments were used to explore the effect of Wnt16 on the degeneration of facet joints. Micro-CT examination and pain stimulation test checked the biological function of Wnt16 in rats. RESULTS Wnt16 was significantly increased and more aggregated in the facet joint chondrocytes in the Phase III and Phase IV, which is consistent with the pathological findings of cartilage degeneration (OARSI). We found that Wnt16 participated in the regulation of FJOA via Wnt/β-catenin pathway in vitro, which was inhibited by specific inhibitor DKK1. The rats, rich expressed Wnt16, showed higher paw withdrawal thresholds and prolonged paw withdrawal latency to FJOA related LBP. Micro-CT examination for the lumbar spine of rats showed Wnt16 protected the chondrocytes from FJOA. CONCLUSIONS This study defined a new staging system for LBP related cartilage degeneration of facet joint based on the original grading system combined with pathological results and clinical symptoms. Wnt16 is expected to be a potential target for treatment of FJOA via protecting chondrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunshuai Wu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Affiliated Hospital 2 of Nantong University, Nantong University, The First People's Hospital of Nantong, Nantong, PR China
| | - Jinjuan Yu
- Outpatient Department, The Third People's Hospital of Nantong, Nantong, PR China
| | - Guanhua Xu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Affiliated Hospital 2 of Nantong University, Nantong University, The First People's Hospital of Nantong, Nantong, PR China
| | - Guofeng Bao
- Department of Spine Surgery, Affiliated Hospital 2 of Nantong University, Nantong University, The First People's Hospital of Nantong, Nantong, PR China
| | - Jinlong Zhang
- Department of Spine Surgery, Affiliated Hospital 2 of Nantong University, Nantong University, The First People's Hospital of Nantong, Nantong, PR China
| | - Pengfei Xue
- Department of Spine Surgery, Affiliated Hospital 2 of Nantong University, Nantong University, The First People's Hospital of Nantong, Nantong, PR China
| | - Jiawei Jiang
- Department of Spine Surgery, Affiliated Hospital 2 of Nantong University, Nantong University, The First People's Hospital of Nantong, Nantong, PR China
| | - Jiajia Chen
- Department of Spine Surgery, Affiliated Hospital 2 of Nantong University, Nantong University, The First People's Hospital of Nantong, Nantong, PR China
| | - Chu Chen
- Department of Spine Surgery, Affiliated Hospital 2 of Nantong University, Nantong University, The First People's Hospital of Nantong, Nantong, PR China
| | - Hongxiang Hong
- Department of Spine Surgery, Affiliated Hospital 2 of Nantong University, Nantong University, The First People's Hospital of Nantong, Nantong, PR China
| | - Zhiming Cui
- Department of Spine Surgery, Affiliated Hospital 2 of Nantong University, Nantong University, The First People's Hospital of Nantong, Nantong, PR China
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Tiwari P, Kaur H, Jha V. Is thoracic facet joint arthritis over-reported? It's time to review CT grading parameters - An analytical cross-sectional study. Indian J Radiol Imaging 2021; 30:427-435. [PMID: 33737771 PMCID: PMC7954162 DOI: 10.4103/ijri.ijri_390_20] [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: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In the absence of any exclusive classification for dorsal FJA, there is a lot of confusion while labelling grade 1 FJA in thoracic spine based on decreased FJ space. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to know the facet joint space measurements in thoracic spine of asymptomatic and symptomatic participants and to comment whether the lower cut-off of 2 mm used in lumbar FJA classification can be safely applied in thoracic spine too. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was done from December 1, 2018 to November 30, 2019. Patients above 18 years of age in this study who underwent CT thorax for causes unrelated to dorsal spinal pain were included. IBM SPSS Statistics v 26 was used for statistical analysis. Results: We measured and analysed 1512 thoracic facet joints in 63 patients (30 females and 33 males) in both axial and sagittal plane on CT scan. Mean age of the entire sample was 59.19 ± 15.19 years, ranging from 33 to 97 years and a standard error of mean 1.365 years. Overall mean thoracic facet joint space was measured to be 1.270 mm ± 0.3416 mm, ranging from 0 to 3.1 mm and a standard error of mean 0.0088 mm and a variance of 0.117 mm. The median was 1.300 mm while mode was 1.1 mm. Conclusion: The popular lumbar FJA classification by Weishupt et al. cannot be applied in its present form in thoracic spine, without the modification in parameters of grade 1 FJA. The lower cut-off of normal thoracic facet joint space probably lies around 1 mm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Punit Tiwari
- Department of Orthopaedics, Maharishi Markandeshwar Medical College and Hospital, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Harmeet Kaur
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Vivek Jha
- Department of Orthopaedics, Maharishi Markandeshwar Medical College and Hospital, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
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Won HS, Jang HY, Moon HS, Zhu PB, Kim YD, Kim H. Fluoroscopic Findings of Extra-Cervical Facet Joint Flow and Its Incidence on Cervical Facet Joint Arthrograms. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9123919. [PMID: 33276698 PMCID: PMC7761532 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9123919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cervical facet joint (CFJ) syndrome is a common cause of neck pain. For its diagnosis and treatment, CFJ injection with arthrogram is generally performed. This study aimed to investigate the frequency of extra-CFJ flow on CFJ arthrograms during injections and its differences according to age, sex, and cervical vertebral level. We analyzed 760 CFJ arthrograms administrated to 208 patients diagnosed with CFJ syndrome. Arthrograms at each vertebral level were collected to evaluate the normal CFJ and extra-CFJ flow. The primary and secondary outcomes were frequency of extra-CFJ flow according to cervical vertebral level, age, and sex and according to pairwise cervical levels, respectively. Extra-CFJ flow at the cervical spine occurred during 179 injections, and the overall incidence was 3.3–36.2% at different cervical levels. The incidence of extra-CFJ flow at each cervical vertebral level according to age and sex was not significant. Extra-CFJ flow was the highest at C6 and C7, but there was no statistical significance. Extra-CFJ flow was higher at lower vertebral levels (C5–C7) than at upper levels (C3 and C4). Additional clinical studies and anatomical evaluations are needed to support its clinical value and enable the development of new injection techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyung-Sun Won
- Department of Anatomy, Wonkwang University School of Medicine, 460 Iksan-daero, Iksan, Jeonbuk 54538, Korea; (H.-S.W.); (P.-B.Z.)
- Jesaeng-Euise Clinical Anatomy Center, Wonkwang University School of Medicine, 460 Iksan-daero, Iksan, Jeonbuk 54538, Korea
| | - Ho-Yeon Jang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Wonkwang University School of Medicine, 460 Iksan-daero, Iksan, Jeonbuk 54538, Korea;
| | - Hyun-Seog Moon
- Joy of the World, Interventional Pain Management Center, 10 Sinchon-ro 35-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03774, Korea;
| | - Peng-Bo Zhu
- Department of Anatomy, Wonkwang University School of Medicine, 460 Iksan-daero, Iksan, Jeonbuk 54538, Korea; (H.-S.W.); (P.-B.Z.)
| | - Yeon-Dong Kim
- Jesaeng-Euise Clinical Anatomy Center, Wonkwang University School of Medicine, 460 Iksan-daero, Iksan, Jeonbuk 54538, Korea
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Wonkwang University School of Medicine, 460 Iksan-daero, Iksan, Jeonbuk 54538, Korea;
- Wonkwang Institute of Science, Wonkwang University School of Medicine, 460 Iksan-daero, Iksan, Jeonbuk 54538, Korea
- Correspondence: (Y.-D.K.); (H.K.); Tel.: +82-63-8591562 (Y.-D.K.); +82-2-30103883 (H.K.)
| | - Hyungtae Kim
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-ro-43-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul 05505, Korea
- Correspondence: (Y.-D.K.); (H.K.); Tel.: +82-63-8591562 (Y.-D.K.); +82-2-30103883 (H.K.)
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7
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE In this narrative review, the current literature on therapeutic interventions for low back pain of facet joint etiology is assessed from an economic value perspective. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA The efficacy and economics of facet joint interventions in the treatment of lumbar back pain is a controversial topic. Trends show that facet joint interventions are becoming increasingly used, perhaps as physicians become more averse to treating chronic low back pain with opioids. With the emphasis on value-based spine care and changing reimbursement models, the perspective of rigorously evaluating the outcomes these interventions provide and the costs they incur is particularly relevant. DISCUSSION Although the evidence is noted to be limited, most systematic reviews fail to demonstrate the therapeutic utility of intra-articular facet joint injections in low back pain because of high study heterogeneity. A few good quality studies and systematic reviews describe moderate evidence for the utilization of therapeutic medial branch blocks and radiofrequency neurotomies in alleviating facet joint pain. CONCLUSION Consequently, there is a need for high-quality cost-effectiveness studies for facet joint interventions so that evidence-based and economically viable solutions can be used to optimize patient care at a societally affordable price.
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Lawson GE, Nolet PS, Little AR, Bhattacharyya A, Wang V, Lawson CA, Ko GD. Medial Branch Blocks for Diagnosis of Facet Joint Pain Etiology and Use in Chronic Pain Litigation. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17217932. [PMID: 33137975 PMCID: PMC7662497 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17217932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A commonly disputed medicolegal issue is the documentation of the location, degree, and anatomical source of an injured plaintiff’s ongoing pain, particularly when the painful region is in or near the spine, and when the symptoms have arisen as result of a relatively low speed traffic crash. The purpose of our paper is to provide health and legal practitioners with strategies to identify the source of cervical pain and to aid triers of fact (decision makers) in reaching better informed conclusions. We review the medical evidence for the applications and reliability of cervical medial branch nerve blocks as an indication of painful spinal facets. We also present legal precedents for the legal admissibility of the results of such diagnostic testing as evidence of chronic spine pain after a traffic crash. Part of the reason for the dispute is the subjective nature of pain, and the fact that medical documentation of pain complaints relies primarily on the history given by the patient. A condition that can be documented objectively is chronic cervical spine facet joint pain, as demonstrated by medial branch block (injection). The diagnostic accuracy of medial branch blocks has been extensively described in the scientific medical literature, and evidence of facet blocks to objectively document chronic post-traumatic neck pain has been accepted as scientifically reliable in courts and tribunals in the USA, Canada and the United Kingdom. We conclude that there is convincing scientific medical evidence that the results of cervical facet blocks provide reliable objective evidence of chronic post-traumatic spine pain, suitable for presentation to an adjudicative decision maker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gordon E. Lawson
- Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, Toronto, ON M2H 3J1, Canada; (G.E.L.); (V.W.)
| | - Paul S. Nolet
- Department of Graduate Education and Research, Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands;
| | | | - Anit Bhattacharyya
- Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2 W1, Canada;
| | - Vivian Wang
- Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, Toronto, ON M2H 3J1, Canada; (G.E.L.); (V.W.)
| | - C. Adam Lawson
- Shibley Righton LLP, Toronto, ON M5H 3E5, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-416-312-7986
| | - Gordon D. Ko
- Department of Medicine, Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Toronto, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada;
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9
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Cohen SP, Bhaskar A, Bhatia A, Buvanendran A, Deer T, Garg S, Hooten WM, Hurley RW, Kennedy DJ, McLean BC, Moon JY, Narouze S, Pangarkar S, Provenzano DA, Rauck R, Sitzman BT, Smuck M, van Zundert J, Vorenkamp K, Wallace MS, Zhao Z. Consensus practice guidelines on interventions for lumbar facet joint pain from a multispecialty, international working group. Reg Anesth Pain Med 2020; 45:424-467. [PMID: 32245841 PMCID: PMC7362874 DOI: 10.1136/rapm-2019-101243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2019] [Revised: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The past two decades have witnessed a surge in the use of lumbar facet blocks and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) to treat low back pain (LBP), yet nearly all aspects of the procedures remain controversial. METHODS After approval by the Board of Directors of the American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, letters were sent to a dozen pain societies, as well as representatives from the US Departments of Veterans Affairs and Defense. A steering committee was convened to select preliminary questions, which were revised by the full committee. Questions were assigned to 4-5 person modules, who worked with the Subcommittee Lead and Committee Chair on preliminary versions, which were sent to the full committee. We used a modified Delphi method, whereby the questions were sent to the committee en bloc and comments were returned in a non-blinded fashion to the Chair, who incorporated the comments and sent out revised versions until consensus was reached. RESULTS 17 questions were selected for guideline development, with 100% consensus achieved by committee members on all topics. All societies except for one approved every recommendation, with one society dissenting on two questions (number of blocks and cut-off for a positive block before RFA), but approving the document. Specific questions that were addressed included the value of history and physical examination in selecting patients for blocks, the value of imaging in patient selection, whether conservative treatment should be used before injections, whether imaging is necessary for block performance, the diagnostic and prognostic value of medial branch blocks (MBB) and intra-articular (IA) injections, the effects of sedation and injectate volume on validity, whether facet blocks have therapeutic value, what the ideal cut-off value is for a prognostic block, how many blocks should be performed before RFA, how electrodes should be oriented, the evidence for larger lesions, whether stimulation should be used before RFA, ways to mitigate complications, if different standards should be applied to clinical practice and clinical trials and the evidence for repeating RFA (see table 12 for summary). CONCLUSIONS Lumbar medial branch RFA may provide benefit to well-selected individuals, with MBB being more predictive than IA injections. More stringent selection criteria are likely to improve denervation outcomes, but at the expense of more false-negatives. Clinical trials should be tailored based on objectives, and selection criteria for some may be more stringent than what is ideal in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven P Cohen
- Anesthesiology, Pain Medicine Division, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Arun Bhaskar
- Anesthesiology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust Haemodialysis Clinic Hayes Satellite Unit, Hayes, UK
| | - Anuj Bhatia
- Anesthesia and Pain Management, University of Toronto and University Health Network-Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Tim Deer
- Spine & Nerve Centers, Charleston, West Virginia, USA
| | - Shuchita Garg
- Anesthesiology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | | | - Robert W Hurley
- Anesthesiology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - David J Kennedy
- Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Brian C McLean
- Anesthesiology, Tripler Army Medical Center, Tripler Army Medical Center, Hawaii, USA
| | - Jee Youn Moon
- Dept of Anesthesiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, The Republic of Korea
| | - Samer Narouze
- Center for Pain Medicine, Summa Western Reserve Hospital, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, USA
| | - Sanjog Pangarkar
- Dept of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Richard Rauck
- Carolinas Pain Institute, Winston Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Matthew Smuck
- Dept.of Orthopaedic Surgery, Division of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Stanford Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Jan van Zundert
- Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Multidisciplinary Pain Center, Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg, Lanaken, Belgium
- Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Mark S Wallace
- Anesthesiology, UCSD Medical Center-Thornton Hospital, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Zirong Zhao
- Neurology, VA Healthcare Center District of Columbia, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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10
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Won HS, Yang M, Kim YD. Facet joint injections for management of low back pain: a clinically focused review. Anesth Pain Med (Seoul) 2020; 15:8-18. [PMID: 33329784 PMCID: PMC7713865 DOI: 10.17085/apm.2020.15.1.8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Lumbar facet joints have been implicated in chronic low back pain in up to 45% of patients with low back pain (LBP). Facet joint pain diagnosis and management are always challenging for pain physicians. Facet joint pain is not diagnosed by specific demographic features, pain characteristics, or physical findings, even though electrodiagnostic studies and imaging modalities are available. Although comparative local anesthetics or placebo saline injections can be used, diagnostic blocks are the only reliable diagnostic measures according to the current literature. Treatment of chronic LBP arising due to facet joint includes intraarticular injections, medial branch blocks, and radiofrequency neurotomy. However, the evidence of their clinical efficacy is continuously under scrutiny. Pain physicians must have a detailed understanding of the spinal anatomy in order to perform safe and effective interventional procedures. This review outlines the important aspects of spinal anatomy as they relate to interventional pain management related to facet joint injections. Additionally, we provide a comprehensive review of the procedure and clinical evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyung-Sun Won
- Department of Anatomy, Wonkwang University School of Medicine, Iksan, Korea.,Jesaeng-Euise Clinical Anatomy Center, Wonkwang University School of Medicine, Iksan, Korea
| | - Miyoung Yang
- Department of Anatomy, Wonkwang University School of Medicine, Iksan, Korea.,Jesaeng-Euise Clinical Anatomy Center, Wonkwang University School of Medicine, Iksan, Korea
| | - Yeon-Dong Kim
- Jesaeng-Euise Clinical Anatomy Center, Wonkwang University School of Medicine, Iksan, Korea.,Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Wonkwang University Hospital, Wonkwang University School of Medicine, Iksan, Korea
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11
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Joshi A, Amrhein TJ, Holmes MA, Talsma J, Shonyo M, Taylor AB. The Source and the Course of the Articular Branches to the T4-T8 Zygapophysial Joints. PAIN MEDICINE 2019; 20:2371-2376. [PMID: 31120121 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnz116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To define the source and the course of the articular branches to the midthoracic zygapophysial ("z") joints. DESIGN Cadaveric dissection. SETTING The Gross Anatomy Laboratory of the Duke University School of Medicine. SUBJECTS Ten human cadaveric thoraces. METHODS Gross and stereoscopic dissection of dorsal rami T4-T8 was performed bilaterally on 10 adult embalmed cadavers. The medial and lateral branches were traced to their origins from the dorsal rami, and the course of the articular nerves was documented through digital photography. Radio-opaque wire (20 gauge) was applied to the nerves. Fluoroscopic images were obtained to delineate their radiographic course with respect to osseous landmarks. RESULTS Forty-eight inferior articular branches were identified. Three (6.3%) originated from the medial branch and 44 (91.7%) from the dorsal ramus. One was indeterminate. Fifty-one superior articular branches were identified. Eight (15.7%) originated from the medial branch and 43 (84.3%) from the dorsal ramus. In 12% of cases (6/50), there was side-to-side asymmetry in the origins of the articular branches. Nerves were commonly suspended in the intertransverse space. The articular branches contacted an osseous structure in only 39% of cases. As previously reported, a "descending branch" was not identified in any specimen. CONCLUSIONS Articular branches to the T4-T8 z-joints have substantial inter- and intraspecimen variability of origin. They typically arise from the dorsal ramus rather than the medial branch and frequently do not contact any osseous structure to allow percutaneous needle placement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anand Joshi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, School of Medicine
| | | | - Megan A Holmes
- Department of Community & Family Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Joel Talsma
- Department of Basic Science, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Touro University, Vallejo, California
| | | | - Andrea B Taylor
- Department of Basic Science, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Touro University, Vallejo, California
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12
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Balázsfi M, Kis D, Tóth T, Zsoldos T, Barzó P. Radiofrequency facet joint denervation efficiency based on the severity of spondylarthrosis and in osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures. A retrospective study. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2019; 186:105497. [PMID: 31563692 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2019.105497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2019] [Revised: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/17/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Radiofrequency denervation of the facet joints is performed via a well-established method. Its primary, direct indication is a positive response to a nerve block injection (MBB). Our study aimed to find other, effective but indirect indication signs through the retrospective analysis of our patients treated earlier. PATIENTS AND METHODS In our institute between 1 January, 2008 and 31 December, 2017 facet joint denervation has been performed in more than 2000 cases, and we included 529 patients in our retrospective study. We had separate groups for vertebral compression fractures and for spondylarthrosis of different severity (Grade 1; 2-3; 4), thus we assessed the postoperative condition of these patients using Visual Analoge Scale (VAS). The efficacy of the intervention was examined in every groups separately according to symptoms and previous spine surgeries. RESULTS In view of our results, chronic lumbago and dorsalgia that are attributable to osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture are obvious indications if they do not respond to conservative therapy, as 76.8% of such patients remained asymptomatic for minimum 6 months (p = 0,000). Another indication is Grade 2 or 3 chronic spondylarthrosis without radicular involvement, since these groups reported a 51.4% success rate (asymptomatic for minimum 6 months) (p = 0,015). Long term pain relief is obviously impaired by the presence of radicular compression, as we were not able to decrease the pain of 97% of such patients. Our findings also suggest that the vast majority of those who have previously undergone spine surgery cannot benefit from the intervention. CONCLUSION Based on this study, facet joint denervation can serve as an effective therapy supplement in a properly selected group of patients who do not respond to oral NSAIDs, exercise and physiotherapy. By this procedure we found we can reach long term benefit in the groups of osteoporotic vertebral fracture patients and patients with moderate spondylarthrosis. According to our results and the literature datas the properly patient selection for the indication of the RF ablation can be as effective as the controversial diagnostic nerve block injections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Márton Balázsfi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Csongrad County, Hungary.
| | - Dávid Kis
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Csongrad County, Hungary
| | - Tamás Tóth
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Csongrad County, Hungary
| | - Tamás Zsoldos
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Csongrad County, Hungary
| | - Pál Barzó
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Csongrad County, Hungary
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13
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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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Yamashita K, Sakai T, Takata Y, Tezuka F, Manabe H, Morimoto M, Kinoshita Y, Yonezu H, Chikawa T, Mase Y, Sairyo K. Low Back Pain in Adolescent Athletes: Comparison of Diagnoses Made by General Orthopedic Surgeons and Spine Surgeons. Int J Spine Surg 2019; 13:178-185. [PMID: 31131218 DOI: 10.14444/6024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Nonspecific low back pain (NSLBP) is a term used to describe low back pain of unknown origin with no identifiable generators. Over a decade ago, it was reported to account for about 85% of all cases of low back pain, although there is some doubt about the frequency. The purpose of this study was to determine the frequency of NSLBP in adolescent athletes diagnosed by general orthopedic surgeons and by spine surgeons. Materials and Methods A total of 69 adolescent athletes consulted our sports spine clinic to seek a second opinion for low back pain. Data on age, sex, type of sport played, the previous diagnosis made by general orthopedic surgeons, and the final diagnosis made by spine surgeons were collected retrospectively from medical records. Results The frequency of NSLBP diagnosed by general orthopedic surgeons was 18.9% and decreased to 1.4% after careful imaging and functional nerve block examination by spine surgeons. The final diagnoses made by spine surgeons for those patients previously diagnosed as having NSLBP by general orthopedic surgeons were as follows: early-stage lumbar spondylolysis, discogenic low back pain, facet joint arthritis, lumbar disc herniation, and lumbar apophyseal ring fracture. Conclusions In adolescent athletes, the rate of NSLBP diagnosed by general orthopedic surgeons decreased markedly when the diagnosis was made by spine surgeons. A thorough medical interview, careful physical examination, appropriate diagnostic imaging, and selective nerve block examination can effectively identify the cause of low back pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuta Yamashita
- Department of Orthopedics, Institute of Health Biosciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Toshinori Sakai
- Department of Orthopedics, Institute of Health Biosciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Yoichiro Takata
- Department of Orthopedics, Institute of Health Biosciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Fumitake Tezuka
- Department of Orthopedics, Institute of Health Biosciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Manabe
- Department of Orthopedics, Institute of Health Biosciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Morimoto
- Department of Orthopedics, Institute of Health Biosciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Yutaka Kinoshita
- Department of Orthopedics, Institute of Health Biosciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Yonezu
- Department of Orthopedics, Institute of Health Biosciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Takashi Chikawa
- Department of Orthopedics, Institute of Health Biosciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | | | - Koichi Sairyo
- Department of Orthopedics, Institute of Health Biosciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
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15
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Degenerative Disorders of the Spine. Clin Neuroradiol 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-61423-6_38-1] [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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16
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Degenerative Disorders of the Spine. Clin Neuroradiol 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-68536-6_38] [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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17
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Chakraverty R, Dias R. Audit of Conservative Management of Chronic Low Back Pain in a Secondary Care Setting – Part I: Facet Joint and Sacroiliac Joint Interventions. Acupunct Med 2018; 22:207-13. [PMID: 15628778 DOI: 10.1136/aim.22.4.207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
The work of a chronic back pain service in secondary care in the West Midlands is reported. The service offers acupuncture, spinal injection procedures, osteopathy and a range of other interventions for patients whose back pain has not responded to conservative management. This section of the report focuses on injection procedures for lumbar facet joint and sacroiliac joint pain, which have been shown to be the cause of chronic low back pain in 16–40% and 13–19% of patients respectively. Diagnosis relies on the use of intra-articular or sensory nerve block injections with local anaesthetic. Possible treatments following diagnosis include intra-articular corticosteroid, radiofrequency denervation (for facet joint pain) or ligament prolotherapy injections (for sacroiliac joint pain). The results of several hospital audits are reported. At six month follow up, 50% of 38 patients undergoing radiofrequency denervation following diagnostic blocks for facet joint pain had improved by more than 50%, compared to 29% of 34 patients treated with intra-articular corticosteroid injection. Sixty three per cent of 19 patients undergoing prolotherapy following diagnostic block injection for sacroiliac joint pain had improved at six months, compared to 33% of 33 who had intra-articular corticosteroid. Both radiofrequency denervation and sacroiliac prolotherapy showed good long-term outcomes at one year.
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18
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Ye L, Wen C, Liu H. Ultrasound-guided versus low dose computed tomography scanning guidance for lumbar facet joint injections: same accuracy and efficiency. BMC Anesthesiol 2018; 18:160. [PMID: 30404599 PMCID: PMC6223004 DOI: 10.1186/s12871-018-0620-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility, accuracy and efficiency of the facet joint injections in the lumbar spine by ultrasound guided versus lose dose computed tomography (CT) guidance. METHODS First the examination on the joint space of the facet joints of the lumbar spine was obtained by the ultrasound in 10 patients. Second forty patients were randomized assigned into two groups: ultrasound group and low dose CT group. Comparison was made in the clinical efficiency between the ultrasound-guided group and CT group. The feasibility, accuracy and efficiency of the ultrasound-guided lumbar facet joint injections were also evaluated. RESULTS A total of 88 lumbar facet joints from L1 to S1 were clearly visualized in the 10 patients. Both the ultrasound and the CT measurements showed the same average depth and lateral distance to the reference point (P > 0.05). And 86.5% of the facet joint injections (64/74) were correctly performed under the ultrasound guidance in the first time. The exact placement of the needle tips was evaluated by CT. After the lumbar facet joint injections, the clinical efficiency was almost the same in the ultrasound-guided group as in the CT group. CONCLUSIONS The lumbar facet joint space can be accurately demonstrated by ultrasound. The ultrasound-guided facet joint injection in the lumbar spine obtained almost the same satisfactory feasibility, accuracy and clinical efficiency compared with low dose CT. Ultrasound technique could provide the real-time monitoring. TRIAL REGISTRATION This study was registered on Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ( ChiCTR1800018819 , retrospective registered on 11/10/2018).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Ye
- Department of Pain management, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province 610041 People’s Republic of China
| | - Chuanbing Wen
- Department of Pain Management, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan Province 610072 People’s Republic of China
| | - Hui Liu
- Department of Pain management, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province 610041 People’s Republic of China
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19
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Facet joint syndrome: from diagnosis to interventional management. Insights Imaging 2018; 9:773-789. [PMID: 30090998 PMCID: PMC6206372 DOI: 10.1007/s13244-018-0638-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Revised: 05/06/2018] [Accepted: 05/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract Low back pain (LBP) is the most common pain syndrome, and is an enormous burden and cost generator for society. Lumbar facet joints (FJ) constitute a common source of pain, accounting for 15–45% of LBP. Facet joint degenerative osteoarthritis is the most frequent form of facet joint pain. History and physical examination may suggest but not confirm facet joint syndrome. Although imaging (radiographs, MRI, CT, SPECT) for back pain syndrome is very commonly performed, there are no effective correlations between clinical symptoms and degenerative spinal changes. Diagnostic positive facet joint block can indicate facet joints as the source of chronic spinal pain. These patients may benefit from specific interventions to eliminate facet joint pain such as neurolysis, by radiofrequency or cryoablation. The purpose of this review is to describe the anatomy, epidemiology, clinical presentation, and radiologic findings of facet joint syndrome. Specific interventional facet joint management will also be described in detail. Teaching points • Lumbar facet joints constitute a common source of pain accounting of 15–45%. • Facet arthrosis is the most frequent form of facet pathology. • There are no effective correlations between clinical symptoms, physical examination and degenerative spinal changes. • Diagnostic positive facet joint block can indicate facet joints as the source of pain. • After selection processing, patients may benefit from facet joint neurolysis, notably by radiofrequency or cryoablation.
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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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Intra-articular Triamcinolone Versus Hyaluronate Injections for Low Back Pain With Symptoms Suggestive of Lumbar Zygapophyseal Joint Arthropathy. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2018; 97:278-284. [DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000000879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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22
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Coles A, Suri P, Rundell S, Nishio I, Shah L, Standaert C, Friedly J. Radiofrequency Ablation for Facet-Mediated Low Back Pain: Current Knowledge and Limitations of the Evidence. CURRENT PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION REPORTS 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s40141-018-0170-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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23
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The Diagnostic Accuracy of Gluteal Trigger Points to Differentiate Radicular From Nonradicular Low Back Pain. Clin J Pain 2017; 32:666-72. [PMID: 26491935 DOI: 10.1097/ajp.0000000000000311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Low back pain (LBP) is highly prevalent and costly to the society. Previous studies have shown an association between radicular LBP and trigger points (TrPs) in the superior-lateral quadrant of the gluteal area (GTrP). The objective of current study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of GTrP to predict nerve root involvement among patients with LBP. MATERIALS AND METHODS In a prospective, diagnostic accuracy study 325 consecutive patients with LBP were recruited. At first step, patients were evaluated for the presence or absence of the GTrP. A different investigator, blinded to the GTrP findings, then performed history taking and physical examination. Subsequently, all patients underwent a lumbar spine magnetic resonance imaging and, when indicated, electrodiagnostic tests. On the basis of the clinical and ancillary tests findings, a multidisciplinary panel of experts (the "reference standard"), blinded to the GTrP evaluation, allocated patients to radicular versus nonradicular LBP groups. The agreement between the GTrP findings, as a diagnostic test and the reference standard allocation was evaluated in a 2 by 2 contingency table. RESULTS The specificity of the GTrP test was 91.4% and its sensitivity was 74.1%. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.827 (0.781 to 0.874). Positive likelihood ratio was 8.62 and negative likelihood ratio was 0.28. Positive and negative predictive values were 91.9% and 72.7%, respectively. DISCUSSION As a clinical finding, TrPs in superior-lateral quadrant of gluteal area are highly specific indicators for radicular LBP. Incorporating these TrPs evaluation in routine physical examination of patients with LBP could decrease the need for more costly, time-consuming, and invasive diagnostic tests.
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Hofmann UK, Keller RL, Walter C, Mittag F. Predictability of the effects of facet joint infiltration in the degenerate lumbar spine when assessing MRI scans. J Orthop Surg Res 2017; 12:180. [PMID: 29162138 PMCID: PMC5699022 DOI: 10.1186/s13018-017-0685-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2017] [Accepted: 11/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Imaging results are frequently considered as hallmarks of disease by spine surgeons to plan their future treatment strategy. Numerous classification systems have been proposed to quantify or grade lumbar magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans and thus objectify imaging findings. The clinical impact of the measured parameters remains, however, unclear. To evaluate the pathological significance of imaging findings in patients with multisegmental degenerative findings, clinicians can perform image-guided local infiltrations to target defined areas such as the facet joints. The aim of the present retrospective study was to evaluate the correlation of MRI facet joint degeneration and spinal stenosis measurements with improvement obtained by image-guided intraarticular facet joint infiltration. Methods Fifty MRI scans of patients with chronic lumbar back pain were graded radiologically using a wide range of classification and measurement systems. The reported effect of facet joint injections at the site was recorded, and a comparative analysis performed. Results When we allocated patients according to their reported pain relief, 27 showed no improvement (0–30%), 16 reported good improvement (31–75%) and 7 reported excellent improvement (> 75%). MRI features assessed in this study did, however, not show any relevant correlation with reported pain after facet joint infiltration: Values for Kendall’s tau ranged from τ = − 0.190 for neuroforaminal stenosis grading as suggested by Lee, to τ = 0.133 for posterior disc height as proposed by Hasegawa. Conclusion Despite the trend in evidence-based medicine to provide medical algorithms, our findings underline the continuing need for individualised spine care that, along with imaging techniques or targeted infiltrations, includes diagnostic dimensions such as good patient history and clinical examination to formulate a diagnosis. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03308149, retrospectively registered October 2017 Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13018-017-0685-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulf Krister Hofmann
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital of Tübingen, Hoppe-Seyler-Strasse 3, 72076, Tübingen, Germany.
| | - Ramona Luise Keller
- Faculty of Medicine, Julius-Maximilians University of Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str.2, 97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Christian Walter
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital of Tübingen, Hoppe-Seyler-Strasse 3, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Falk Mittag
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital of Tübingen, Hoppe-Seyler-Strasse 3, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
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Russo VM, Dhawan RT, Baudracco I, Dharmarajah N, Lazzarino AI, Casey AT. Hybrid Bone SPECT/CT Imaging in Evaluation of Chronic Low Back Pain: Correlation with Facet Joint Arthropathy. World Neurosurg 2017; 107:732-738. [PMID: 28847557 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2017.08.092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2016] [Revised: 08/12/2017] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence to support the use of bone hydroxydiphosphonate (HDP) single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT/CT) in patients with facetogenic low back pain (LBP) is still limited. In this study we compared the scintigraphic patterns on bone SPECT/CT with the degree of structural facet joint (FJ) degeneration on CT in patients with LBP. METHODS Ninety-nine consecutive patients with LBP were prospectively evaluated. Patients with known or suspected malignancy, trauma, infectious processes, chronic inflammatory diseases, and previous surgery were excluded. The effect of LBP on the daily quality of life was assessed with the Oswestry disability index (ODI). The Pathria grading system was used to score FJ degeneration on CT scans. The correlation between the degree of FJ degeneration and osteoblastic activity on SPECT/CT was analyzed with Kappa statistics. RESULTS Ninety-nine patients were included (59 female, mean age 56.2 years). The mean ODI score was 38.5% (range, 8% to 72%). In all, 792 FJ (L2-3 to L5-S1) were examined. Of the FJs, 49.6% were Pathria grade 0-1 (normal to mild degeneration) on CT, 35% were grade 2 (moderate degeneration), and 16% were grade 3 (severe degeneration). Sixty-seven percent of the patients had scintigraphically active FJs on SPECT/CT. Sixty-nine percent of Pathria grade 3 FJs were scintigraphically active; 5.5% and 16.8% of Pathria grade 0-1 and Pathria grade 2, respectively, were active. Of the metabolically active FJs, 71.4% were at the L4-5/L5-S1 levels. CONCLUSIONS The ability of SPECT/CT to precisely localize scintigraphically active FJs may provide significant improvement in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with LBP. In this study we demonstrate that in >40% of FJs, the scintigraphic patterns on SPECT/CT did not correlate with the degree of degeneration on CT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittorio M Russo
- Department of Neurosurgery, The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
| | - Ranju T Dhawan
- Department of Neurosurgery, The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
| | - Irene Baudracco
- Department of Neurosurgery, The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK.
| | - Nishanth Dharmarajah
- Department of Neurosurgery, The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
| | - Antonio I Lazzarino
- Department of Neurosurgery, The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
| | - Adrian T Casey
- Department of Neurosurgery, The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
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Abstract
Image-guided spinal injection is commonly performed in symptomatic patients to decrease pain severity, confirm the pain generator, and delay or avoid surgery. This article focuses on the radiologist as spine interventionist and addresses the following four topics relevant to the radiologist who performs corticosteroid injections for pain management: (a) the rationale behind corticosteroid injection, (b) the interaction with patients, (c) the role of imaging in procedural selection and planning, and (d) the pearls and pitfalls of fluoroscopically guided injections. Factors that contribute to the success of a pain management service include communication skills and risk mitigation. A critical factor is the correlation of clinical symptoms with magnetic resonance (MR) imaging findings. Radiologists can leverage their training in MR image interpretation to distinguish active pain generators in the spine from incidental abnormalities. Knowledge of fluoroscopic anatomy and patterns of contrast material flow guide the planning and execution of safe and effective needle placement. © RSNA, 2016 Online supplemental material is available for this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- William E Palmer
- From the Department of Musculoskeletal Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, YAW 6030, Boston, MA 02114
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Facet joint injection versus epidural steroid injection for lumbar spinal stenosis: intra-individual study. Clin Radiol 2017; 72:96.e7-96.e14. [DOI: 10.1016/j.crad.2016.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Revised: 07/26/2016] [Accepted: 08/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Maas E, Juch J, Ostelo R, Groeneweg J, Kallewaard J, Koes B, Verhagen A, Huygen F, van Tulder M. Systematic review of patient history and physical examination to diagnose chronic low back pain originating from the facet joints. Eur J Pain 2016; 21:403-414. [DOI: 10.1002/ejp.963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/03/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- E.T. Maas
- Department of Health Sciences and the EMGO+ Institute for Health and Care Research; Faculty of Earth and Life Sciences; VU University Amsterdam; The Netherlands
| | - J.N.S. Juch
- Department of Anaesthesiology; Erasmus Medical Centre; Rotterdam The Netherlands
| | - R.W.J.G. Ostelo
- Department of Health Sciences and the EMGO+ Institute for Health and Care Research; Faculty of Earth and Life Sciences; VU University Amsterdam; The Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics; VU University Medical Centre Amsterdam; The Netherlands
| | - J.G. Groeneweg
- Department of Anaesthesiology; Erasmus Medical Centre; Rotterdam The Netherlands
| | | | - B.W. Koes
- Department of General Practice; Erasmus Medical Centre; Rotterdam The Netherlands
| | - A.P. Verhagen
- Department of General Practice; Erasmus Medical Centre; Rotterdam The Netherlands
| | - F.J.P.M. Huygen
- Department of Anaesthesiology; Erasmus Medical Centre; Rotterdam The Netherlands
| | - M.W. van Tulder
- Department of Health Sciences and the EMGO+ Institute for Health and Care Research; Faculty of Earth and Life Sciences; VU University Amsterdam; The Netherlands
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Klessinger S. Zygapophysial joint pain in selected patients. World J Anesthesiol 2015; 4:49-57. [DOI: 10.5313/wja.v4.i3.49] [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: 04/30/2015] [Revised: 08/10/2015] [Accepted: 09/16/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The zygapophysial joints (z-joints), together with the intervertebral disc, form a functional spine unit. The joints are typical synovial joints with an innervation from two medial branches of the dorsal rami. The joint capsule and the surrounding structures have an extensive nerve supply. The stretching of the capsule and loads being transmitted through the joint can cause pain. The importance of the z-joints as a pain generator is often underestimated because the prevalence of z-joint pain (10%-80%) is difficult to specify. Z-joint pain is a somatic referred pain. Morning stiffness and pain when moving from a sitting to a standing position are typical. No historic or physical examination variables exist to identify z-joint pain. Also, radiologic findings do not have a diagnostic value for pain from z-joints. The method with the best acceptance for diagnosing z-joint pain is controlled medial branch blocks (MBBs). They are the most validated of all spinal interventions, although false-positive and false-negative results exist and the degree of pain relief after MBBs remains contentious. The prevalence of z-joint pain increases with age, and it often comes along with other pain sources. Degenerative changes are commonly found. Z-joints are often affected by osteoarthritis and inflammatory processes. Often additional factors including synovial cysts, spondylolisthesis, spinal canal stenosis, and injuries are present. The only truly validated treatment is medial branch neurotomy. The available technique vindicates the use of radiofrequency neurotomy provided that the correct technique is used and patients are selected rigorously using controlled blocks.
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Maas ET, Ostelo RWJG, Niemisto L, Jousimaa J, Hurri H, Malmivaara A, van Tulder MW. Radiofrequency denervation for chronic low back pain. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2015; 2015:CD008572. [PMID: 26495910 PMCID: PMC8782593 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd008572.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radiofrequency (RF) denervation, an invasive treatment for chronic low back pain (CLBP), is used most often for pain suspected to arise from facet joints, sacroiliac (SI) joints or discs. Many (uncontrolled) studies have shown substantial variation in its use between countries and continued uncertainty regarding its effectiveness. OBJECTIVES The objective of this review is to assess the effectiveness of RF denervation procedures for the treatment of patients with CLBP. The current review is an update of the review conducted in 2003. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, EMBASE, three other databases, two clinical trials registries and the reference lists of included studies from inception to May 2014 for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) fulfilling the inclusion criteria. We updated this search in June 2015, but we have not yet incorporated these results. SELECTION CRITERIA We included RCTs of RF denervation for patients with CLBP who had a positive response to a diagnostic block or discography. We applied no language or date restrictions. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Pairs of review authors independently selected RCTs, extracted data and assessed risk of bias (RoB) and clinical relevance using standardised forms. We performed meta-analyses with clinically homogeneous studies and assessed the quality of evidence for each outcome using the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. MAIN RESULTS In total, we included 23 RCTs (N = 1309), 13 of which (56%) had low RoB. We included both men and women with a mean age of 50.6 years. We assessed the overall quality of the evidence as very low to moderate. Twelve studies examined suspected facet joint pain, five studies disc pain, two studies SI joint pain, two studies radicular CLBP, one study suspected radiating low back pain and one study CLBP with or without suspected radiation. Overall, moderate evidence suggests that facet joint RF denervation has a greater effect on pain compared with placebo over the short term (mean difference (MD) -1.47, 95% confidence interval (CI) -2.28 to -0.67). Low-quality evidence indicates that facet joint RF denervation is more effective than placebo for function over the short term (MD -5.53, 95% CI -8.66 to -2.40) and over the long term (MD -3.70, 95% CI -6.94 to -0.47). Evidence of very low to low quality shows that facet joint RF denervation is more effective for pain than steroid injections over the short (MD -2.23, 95% CI -2.38 to -2.08), intermediate (MD -2.13, 95% CI -3.45 to -0.81), and long term (MD -2.65, 95% CI -3.43 to -1.88). RF denervation used for disc pain produces conflicting results, with no effects for RF denervation compared with placebo over the short and intermediate term, and small effects for RF denervation over the long term for pain relief (MD -1.63, 95% CI -2.58 to -0.68) and improved function (MD -6.75, 95% CI -13.42 to -0.09). Lack of evidence of short-term effectiveness undermines the clinical plausibility of intermediate-term or long-term effectiveness. When RF denervation is used for SI joint pain, low-quality evidence reveals no differences from placebo in effects on pain (MD -2.12, 95% CI -5.45 to 1.21) and function (MD -14.06, 95% CI -30.42 to 2.30) over the short term, and one study shows a small effect on both pain and function over the intermediate term. RF denervation is an invasive procedure that can cause a variety of complications. The quality and size of original studies were inadequate to permit assessment of how often complications occur. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The review authors found no high-quality evidence suggesting that RF denervation provides pain relief for patients with CLBP. Similarly, we identified no convincing evidence to show that this treatment improves function. Overall, the current evidence for RF denervation for CLBP is very low to moderate in quality; high-quality evidence is lacking. High-quality RCTs with larger patient samples are needed, as are data on long-term effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther T Maas
- VU University AmsterdamDepartment of Health Sciences, Faculty of Earth and Life SciencesAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Raymond WJG Ostelo
- VU University AmsterdamDepartment of Health Sciences, EMGO+ Institute for Health and Care ResearchPO Box 7057AmsterdamNetherlands1007 MB
| | - Leena Niemisto
- Dextra Medical CenterRaumantie 1 aHelsinkiFinlandFIN‐00350
| | | | - Heikki Hurri
- Kuntoutus ORTONRehabilitation CentreTenholantie 10HelsinkiFinlandFIN‐00280
| | - Antti Malmivaara
- National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL)Centre for Health and Social Economics (CHESS)PO Box 30Mannerheimintie 166HelsinkiFinlandFI‐00271
| | - Maurits W van Tulder
- VU University AmsterdamDepartment of Health Sciences, Faculty of Earth and Life SciencesAmsterdamNetherlands
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Itz CJ, Willems PC, Zeilstra DJ, Huygen FJ. Dutch Multidisciplinary Guideline for Invasive Treatment of Pain Syndromes of the Lumbosacral Spine. Pain Pract 2015; 16:90-110. [DOI: 10.1111/papr.12318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2014] [Accepted: 04/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Coen J. Itz
- Department of Anesthesiology; Erasmus Medical Center; Rotterdam The Netherlands
- Health Insurance Company VGZ Eindhoven; Eindhoven The Netherlands
| | - Paul C. Willems
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery; Maastricht University Medical Centre; Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Dick J. Zeilstra
- Neurosurgery; Nedspine Ede and Bergman Clinics Naarden; Ede and Naarden The Netherlands
| | - Frank J. Huygen
- Department of Anesthesiology; Centre of Pain Medicine; Erasmus Medical Center; Rotterdam the Netherlands
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Factors Associated with Successful Outcomes with Lumbar Medial Branch Radiofrequency Neurotomy. CURRENT PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION REPORTS 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s40141-015-0088-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Malham GM, Parker RM, Ballok ZE, Goss B, Diwan AD, Uribe JS. Bone scans are reliable for the identification of lumbar disk and facet pathology. Global Spine J 2015; 5:23-30. [PMID: 25648168 PMCID: PMC4303479 DOI: 10.1055/s-0034-1394298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2014] [Accepted: 09/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Study Design Surgeon survey. Objective To evaluate the reliability of bone single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) versus bone SPECT images co-registered with computed tomography (bone SPECT-CT) by analyzing interobserver agreement for identification of the anatomical location of technetium(99m)-labeled oxidronate uptake in the lumbar disk and/or facet joint. Methods Seven spine surgeons interpreted 20 bone scans: 10 conventional black-and-white tomograms (bone SPECT) and 10 color-graded bone SPECT-CT scans. Each surgeon was asked to identify the location of any diagnostically relevant uptake in the disk and/or facet joint between L1 and S1. Reliability was evaluated using the free-marginal kappa statistic, and the level of agreement was assessed using the Landis and Koch interpretation. Results Conventional bone SPECT scans and bone SPECT-CT scans were reliable for the identification of diagnostically relevant uptake, with bone SPECT-CT having higher reliability (kappa = 0.72) than bone SPECT alone (0.59). Bone SPECT and bone SPECT-CT were also reliable in identifying disk pathology, with kappa values of 0.72 and 0.81, respectively. However, bone SPECT-CT was more reliable (0.81) than bone SPECT (0.60) when identifying facet disease. Conclusions For the identification of disk pathology, it is reasonable to use either conventional bone SPECT or bone SPECT-CT; however, bone SPECT-CT is more reliable for facet joint pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory M. Malham
- Neuroscience Institute, Epworth Hospital, Melbourne, Australia,Address for correspondence Gregory M. Malham, MB ChB, FRACS Suite 2, Level 1, 517 St. Kilda RoadMelbourne, VIC 3004Australia
| | | | - Zita E. Ballok
- Nuclear Medicine Department, Primary Healthcare Imaging, Epworth Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ben Goss
- NuVasive Australia and NZ Pty Ltd, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ashish D. Diwan
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, St. George Private Hospital, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Juan S. Uribe
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Repair, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, United States
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Ko S, Vaccaro AR, Lee S, Lee J, Chang H. The prevalence of lumbar spine facet joint osteoarthritis and its association with low back pain in selected Korean populations. Clin Orthop Surg 2014; 6:385-91. [PMID: 25436061 PMCID: PMC4233216 DOI: 10.4055/cios.2014.6.4.385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2014] [Accepted: 03/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study was to evaluate the association of lumbar spine facet joint osteoarthritis (LSFJOA) identified by multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) with age and low back pain (LBP) in an adult community-based population in Korea. METHODS A sample of 472 participants (age range, 20 to 84 years) who underwent MDCT imaging for abdominal or urological lesions, not for chief complaints of LBP, were included in this study. LSFJOA based on MDCT findings was characterized using four grades of osteoarthritis of the facet joints. The prevalence of LSFJOA according to age group (below 40 years, 40-49 years, 50-59 years, 60-69 years, and above 70 years), gender, and spinal level was analyzed using chi-square tests and the association between LBP and LSFJOA adjusting for age, gender, and spine level was analyzed using multiple binary logistic regression test. RESULTS Eighty-three study subjects (17.58%) had LSFJOA (grade ≥ 2). The prevalence of LSFJOA was not associated with gender (p = 0.092). The prevalence of LSFJOA increased with age (p = 0.015). The highest prevalence of LSFJOA was observed at L4-5 in men (p = 0.001) and at L5-S1 in women (p = 0.003), and at L5-S1 in the overall population (p = 0.000). LSFJOA was not associated with LBP in men (p = 0.093) but was associated with LBP in women (p = 0.003), especially at L3-4 (p = 0.018) and L5-S1 (p = 0.026). CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of LSFJOA based on the computed tomography imaging was 17.58% in the adult community Korean population. The prevalence of LSFJOA increased with age, and the highest prevalence was noted at L5-S1. LSFJOA was not associated with LBP at any spinal level and age except at L3-4 and L5-S1 in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangbong Ko
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Alexander R Vaccaro
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sangwook Lee
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Jaekun Lee
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Hojin Chang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
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Rocha IDD, Cristante AF, Marcon RM, Oliveira RP, Letaif OB, Barros Filho TEPD. Controlled medial branch anesthetic block in the diagnosis of chronic lumbar facet joint pain: the value of a three-month follow-up. Clinics (Sao Paulo) 2014; 69:529-34. [PMID: 25141111 PMCID: PMC4129553 DOI: 10.6061/clinics/2014(08)05] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2014] [Accepted: 02/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To verify the incidence of facetary and low back pain after a controlled medial branch anesthetic block in a three-month follow-up and to verify the correlation between the positive results and the demographic variables. METHODS Patients with chronic lumbar pain underwent a sham blockade (with a saline injection) and then a controlled medial branch block. Their symptoms were evaluated before and after the sham injection and after the real controlled medial branch block; the symptoms were reevaluated after one day and one week, as well as after one, two and three months using the visual analog scale. We searched for an association between the positive results and the demographic characteristics of the patients. RESULTS A total of 104 controlled medial branch blocks were performed and 54 patients (52%) demonstrated >50% improvements in pain after the blockade. After three months, lumbar pain returned in only 18 individuals, with visual analogue scale scores >4. Therefore, these patients were diagnosed with chronic facet low back pain. The three-months of follow-up after the controlled medial branch block excluded 36 patients (67%) with false positive results. The results of the controlled medial branch block were not correlated to sex, age, pain duration or work disability but were correlated with patient age (p<0.05). CONCLUSION Patient diagnosis with a controlled medial branch block proved to be effective but was not associated with any demographic variables. A three-month follow-up is required to avoid a high number of false positives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Dias da Rocha
- Instituto de Ortopedia e Traumatologia, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (IOT-HCFMUSP), Spine Surgery Division, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Fogaça Cristante
- Instituto de Ortopedia e Traumatologia, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (IOT-HCFMUSP), Spine Surgery Division, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Raphael Martus Marcon
- Instituto de Ortopedia e Traumatologia, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (IOT-HCFMUSP), Spine Surgery Division, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Reginaldo Perilo Oliveira
- Instituto de Ortopedia e Traumatologia, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (IOT-HCFMUSP), Spine Surgery Division, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Olavo Biraghi Letaif
- Instituto de Ortopedia e Traumatologia, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (IOT-HCFMUSP), Spine Surgery Division, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Tarcisio Eloy Pessoa de Barros Filho
- Instituto de Ortopedia e Traumatologia, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (IOT-HCFMUSP), Spine Surgery Division, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Van Zundert J, Van Boxem K, Vanelderen P, Puylaert M, De Vooght P, Mestrum R, Heylen R, Vissers K, van Kleef M. Establishing the diagnosis of low back pain: patient selection for interventional pain medicine. Pain Manag 2014; 3:129-36. [PMID: 24645997 DOI: 10.2217/pmt.13.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
SUMMARY Low back pain is one of the most prominent healthcare problems but there is no gold standard for its diagnosis. Aspecific low back pain can be subdivided into radicular and mechanical pain. The diagnosis mainly relies on a combination of elements, such as medical history, physical examination, medical imaging and other possible additional tests. Once a working diagnosis has been established, confirmation of the causative structure and level is sought by means of diagnostic blocks. The use of the different diagnostic tests and blocks should be guided by the balance between the potential benefit (mainly in terms of improved treatment outcome, the possible burden for the patient and the chances of withholding potential effective treatment to patients) with false-negative test results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Van Zundert
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care & Multidisciplinary Pain Centre, Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg, Genk, Belgium
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Shin DA, Kim HI. Nonoperative interventions for spinal pain. JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION 2014. [DOI: 10.5124/jkma.2014.57.4.308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Dong Ah Shin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Medical System Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science & Technology, Gwnagju, Korea
| | - Hyoung Ihl Kim
- Department of Medical System Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science & Technology, Gwnagju, Korea
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Suri P, Hunter DJ, Rainville J, Guermazi A, Katz JN. Presence and extent of severe facet joint osteoarthritis are associated with back pain in older adults. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2013; 21:1199-206. [PMID: 23973131 PMCID: PMC4018241 DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2013.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2013] [Revised: 05/17/2013] [Accepted: 05/20/2013] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether the presence and extent of severe lumbar facet joint osteoarthritis (OA) are associated with back pain in older adults, accounting for disc height narrowing and other covariates. DESIGN Two hundred and fifty-two older adults from the Framingham Offspring Cohort (mean age 67 years) were studied. Participants received standardized computed tomography (CT) assessments of lumbar facet joint OA and disc height narrowing at the L2-S1 interspaces using four-grade semi-quantitative scales. Severe facet joint OA was defined according to the presence and/or degree of joint space narrowing, osteophytosis, articular process hypertrophy, articular erosions, subchondral cysts, and intraarticular vacuum phenomenon. Severe disc height narrowing was defined as marked narrowing with endplates almost in contact. Back pain was defined as participant report of pain on most days or all days in the past 12 months. We used multivariable logistic regression to examine associations between severe facet joint OA and back pain, adjusting for key covariates including disc height narrowing, sociodemographics, anthropometrics, and health factors. RESULTS Severe facet joint OA was more common in participants with back pain than those without (63.2% vs 46.7%; P = 0.03). In multivariable analyses, presence of any severe facet joint OA remained significantly associated with back pain (odds ratio (OR) 2.15 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.13-4.08]). Each additional joint with severe OA conferred greater odds of back pain [OR per joint 1.20 (95% CI 1.02-1.41)]. CONCLUSIONS The presence and extent of severe facet joint OA on CT imaging are associated with back pain in community-based older adults, independent of sociodemographics, health factors, and disc height narrowing.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Suri
- VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, Seattle, WA 98108, USA.
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Chambers H. Physiotherapy and lumbar facet joint injections as a combination treatment for chronic low back pain. A narrative review of lumbar facet joint injections, lumbar spinal mobilizations, soft tissue massage and lower back mobility exercises. Musculoskeletal Care 2013; 11:106-20. [PMID: 23468052 DOI: 10.1002/msc.1045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to summarize the available evidence on lumbar facet joint injections and the physiotherapy treatments, land-based lower back mobility exercise, soft tissue massage and lumbar spinal mobilizations for chronic low back pain (CLBP). The plausibility of physiotherapy and lumbar facet joint injections as a combination treatment is discussed. METHODS Using a systematic process, an online electronic search was performed using key words utilizing all available databases and hand searching reference lists. Using a critical appraisal tool from the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP), the literature was screened to include primary research. The main aspects of the research were summarized. RESULTS The evidence for lumbar facet joint injections suggests an overall short-term positive effect on CLBP. Land-based lower back mobility exercise and soft tissue massage appear to have a positive effect on CLBP in the short term and possibly in the longer term. There is insufficient evidence to draw conclusions for lumbar spinal mobilizations. CONCLUSION The review indicates that lumbar facet joint injections create a short period when pain is reduced. Physiotherapy treatments including land-based lower back mobility exercise and soft tissue massage may be of benefit during this time to improve the longer-term outcomes of patients with CLBP. It is not possible to make generalizations or firm conclusions. The current review highlights the need for further research. A randomized controlled trial is recommended to assess the impact of physiotherapy in combination with lumbar facet joint injections on CLBP.
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Derby R, Melnik I, Lee JE, Lee SH. Cost comparisons of various diagnostic medial branch block protocols and medial branch neurotomy in a private practice setting. PAIN MEDICINE 2013; 14:378-91. [PMID: 23294522 DOI: 10.1111/pme.12026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We calculated the average total facility and professional cost of medial branch neurotomy (MBN) procedure and diagnostic medial branch blocks (MBBs), based on increments of MBB results (50-100% cutoff values), to determine the most cost-effective protocol that correlates with positive MBN outcome. DESIGN/METHODS We evaluated both actual cost and the theoretical cost of procedures in three groups: 0, single and double MBB. We calculated costs assuming MBB success rates at incrementally higher levels by incrementally raising the cutoff values for a successful diagnostic MBB by 10% increments (from 50% to 100%). We analyzed each cutoff value using the preposition that all patients meeting the cutoff value would proceed to MBN. Those not meeting the cutoff value would not have the cost of MBN added to the cost calculations. A cost per successful procedure was also analyzed. RESULTS Cost savings were noted when ≥70% cutoff MBB values were utilized and additionally when patients declined MBN for reasons other than their MBB outcome, although these dropouts lowered the cost-effectiveness of MBB when analyzed as cost per successful procedure. Costs over 5 years per successful procedure using 0, 1 and 2 diagnostic MBB protocol (x) and MBB protocol (o) were, however, similar at all MBB cutoff values. CONCLUSIONS Diagnostic MBB using progressively stringent MBB cutoff values incrementally excluded patients without posterior element pain as evidenced by incremental increase in positive outcomes following MBN. The exclusion of patients from MBN due to failure to report 70% or greater pain relief following MBB resulted in cost savings in favor of performing diagnostic MBB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Derby
- Spinal Diagnostics and Treatment Center, Daly City, CA 94015, USA.
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Cohen SP, Huang JHY, Brummett C. Facet joint pain—advances in patient selection and treatment. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2012; 9:101-16. [DOI: 10.1038/nrrheum.2012.198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Gellhorn AC, Katz JN, Suri P. Osteoarthritis of the spine: the facet joints. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2012. [PMID: 23147891 DOI: 10.1038/nrrheum] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) of the spine involves the facet joints, which are located in the posterior aspect of the vertebral column and, in humans, are the only true synovial joints between adjacent spinal levels. Facet joint osteoarthritis (FJ OA) is widely prevalent in older adults, and is thought to be a common cause of back and neck pain. The prevalence of facet-mediated pain in clinical populations increases with increasing age, suggesting that FJ OA might have a particularly important role in older adults with spinal pain. Nevertheless, to date FJ OA has received far less study than other important OA phenotypes such as knee OA, and other features of spine pathoanatomy such as degenerative disc disease. This Review presents the current state of knowledge of FJ OA, including relevant anatomy, biomechanics, epidemiology, and clinical manifestations. We present the view that the modern concept of FJ OA is consonant with the concept of OA as a failure of the whole joint, and not simply of facet joint cartilage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfred C Gellhorn
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington Medical Center, Box 354740, 4245 Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105, USA
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Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) of the spine involves the facet joints, which are located in the posterior aspect of the vertebral column and, in humans, are the only true synovial joints between adjacent spinal levels. Facet joint osteoarthritis (FJ OA) is widely prevalent in older adults, and is thought to be a common cause of back and neck pain. The prevalence of facet-mediated pain in clinical populations increases with increasing age, suggesting that FJ OA might have a particularly important role in older adults with spinal pain. Nevertheless, to date FJ OA has received far less study than other important OA phenotypes such as knee OA, and other features of spine pathoanatomy such as degenerative disc disease. This Review presents the current state of knowledge of FJ OA, including relevant anatomy, biomechanics, epidemiology, and clinical manifestations. We present the view that the modern concept of FJ OA is consonant with the concept of OA as a failure of the whole joint, and not simply of facet joint cartilage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfred C Gellhorn
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington Medical Center, Box 354740, 4245 Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105, USA
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Suri P, Dharamsi AS, Gaviola G, Isaac Z. Are facet joint bone marrow lesions and other facet joint features associated with low back pain? A pilot study. PM R 2012; 5:194-200. [PMID: 23122893 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmrj.2012.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2012] [Revised: 08/23/2012] [Accepted: 09/02/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the frequency of facet joint (FJ) bone marrow lesions, high FJ periarticular signal intensity, and FJ effusions in a convenience sample of patients with axial low back pain (LBP). DESIGN A cross-sectional pilot study with retrospective data collection. SETTING Outpatient spine clinics. PATIENTS Sixty-four adults with axial LBP scheduled to receive an FJ intra-articular corticosteroid injection. METHODS Clinical data were abstracted from the medical record by 1 physician, who was blinded to results of the magnetic resonance imaging evaluations. A musculoskeletal radiologist blinded to clinical information performed standardized assessments of the L1-S1 spinal levels for FJ bone marrow lesions, effusions, and high periarticular signal intensity on lumbar magnetic resonance imaging, including short tau inversion recovery sequences. We calculated the frequency of these FJ features and used generalized estimating equations to examine side-specific associations between the location of FJ features and the side on which LBP was experienced. RESULTS The sample included 64 participants with a mean (standard deviation) age of 59.9 ± 14.5 years. FJ bone marrow lesions were present in 64.1%, effusions in 70.3%, and high periarticular signal intensity in 65.6% of participants. All the features were most common at the L4-L5 level. These FJ features showed significant associations with the side on which LBP was experienced or statistical trends toward an association, with or without adjustment for age, gender, and body mass index. The strongest side-specific associations were seen for the number of bone marrow lesions (odds ratio [OR] 1.60 [95% confidence interval {CI},1.05-2.43]), any FJ effusion (OR 2.23 [95% CI, 1.02-4.85]), and the number of joints with high periarticular signal intensity (OR 1.75 [95% CI, 1.16-2.63]). CONCLUSIONS FJ bone marrow lesions, effusions, and high periarticular signal intensity were common in this sample of patients with axial LBP and substantially more frequent than in prior reports from unselected samples of patients with or without radicular pain. These FJ features demonstrate side-specific associations with LBP. Further study of associations between these FJ features and LBP are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pradeep Suri
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA.
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Abstract
Osteoarthritis of the spine develops as a consequence of the natural aging process and is associated with significant morbidity and health care expenditures. Effective diagnosis and treatment of the resultant pathologic conditions can be clinically challenging. Recent evidence has emerged to aid the investigating clinician in formulating an accurate diagnosis and in implementing a successful treatment algorithm. This article details the degenerative cascade that results in the osteoarthritic spine, reviews prevalence data for common painful spinal disorders, and discusses evidence-based treatment options for management of zygapophysial and sacroiliac joint arthrosis.
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Abstract
Degenerative changes are the manifestations of metabolic disturbances in the matrix of intervertebral disks and zygapophysial joints. Genetic factors and physical loading contribute, but the strongest correlation is with age. Degenerative changes lack any significant correlation with spinal pain. Therefore, they do not constitute a diagnosis. Internal disk disruption is a distinctive condition that is independent of degeneration and age. Its biophysical and morphologic features correlate with back pain, as do its manifestations on magnetic resonance imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolai Bogduk
- University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.
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Sokolof JM, Nampiaparampil DE, Chimes GP. Use of medial branch blocks before radiofrequency ablation for lumbar facet joints. PM R 2012; 4:521-6. [PMID: 22814730 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmrj.2012.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2012] [Accepted: 06/25/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jonas M Sokolof
- Department of Neurology/Rehabilitation Medicine Service, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
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Roth RS, Geisser ME, Williams DA. Interventional pain medicine: retreat from the biopsychosocial model of pain. Transl Behav Med 2012; 2:106-16. [PMID: 24073101 PMCID: PMC3717820 DOI: 10.1007/s13142-011-0090-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The field of pain medicine has shifted from multidisciplinary rehabilitation to procedure-focused interventional pain medicine (IPM). Considerable controversy exists regarding the efficacy of IPM and its more narrow focus on nociception as an exclusive target of pain treatment. This topical review aims to examine pain research and treatment outcome studies that support a biopsychosocial model of pain, and to critique the clinical practice of IPM given its departure from the premises of a biopsychosocial model. A modern definition of pain and findings from clinical and basic science studies indicate that pain-related psychological factors are integral to pain perception. The clinical viability of IPM is challenged based upon its biomedical view of peripheral nociception as a primary source of pain and the potential of this viewpoint to foster maladaptive pain attributions and discourage the use of pain coping strategies among chronic pain patients. IPM should adopt a biopsychosocial perspective on pain and operate within a framework of multidisciplinary pain rehabilitation to improve its effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randy S Roth
- />Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Michigan Health System, 325 E. Eisenhower Pkwy, Ann Arbor, MI 48108 USA
- />Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Ann Arbor Veterans Health Care System, Ann Arbor, MI 48105 USA
| | - Michael E Geisser
- />Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Michigan Health System, 325 E. Eisenhower Pkwy, Ann Arbor, MI 48108 USA
| | - David A Williams
- />Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 USA
- />Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI USA
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Schütz U, Cakir B, Dreinhöfer K, Richter M, Koepp H. Diagnostic value of lumbar facet joint injection: a prospective triple cross-over study. PLoS One 2011; 6:e27991. [PMID: 22140497 PMCID: PMC3226632 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0027991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2011] [Accepted: 10/30/2011] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The diagnosis “lumbar facet syndrome” is common and often indicates severe lumbar spine surgery procedures. It is doubtful whether a painful facet joint (FJ) can be identified by a single FJ block. The aim of this study was to clarify the validity of a single and placebo controlled bilateral FJ blocks using local anesthetics. A prospective single blinded triple cross-over study was performed. 60 patients (31 f, 29 m, mean age 53.2 yrs (22–73)) with chronic low back pain (mean pain persistance 31 months, 6 months of conservative treatment without success) admitted to a local orthopaedic department for surgical or conservative therapy of chronic LBP, were included in the study. Effect on pain reduction (10 point rating scale) was measured. The 60 subjects were divided into six groups with three defined sequences of fluoroscopically guided bilateral monosegmental lumbar FJ test injections in “oblique needle” technique: verum-(local anaesthetic-), placebo-(sodium chloride-) and sham-injection. Carry-over and periodic effects were evaluated and a descriptive and statistical analysis regarding the effectiveness, difference and equality of the FJ injections and the different responses was performed. The results show a high rate of non-response, which documents the lack of reliable and valid predictors for a positive response towards FJ blocks. There was a high rate of placebo reactions noted, including subjects who previously or later reacted positively to verum injections. Equivalence was shown among verum vs. placebo and partly vs. sham also. With regard to test validity criteria, a single intraarticular FJ block with local anesthetics is not useful to detect the pain-responsible FJ and therefore is no valid and reliable diagostic tool to specify indication of lumbar spine surgery. Comparative FJ blocks with local anesthetics and placebo-controls have to be interpretated carefully also, because they solely give no proper diagnosis on FJ being main pain generator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uwe Schütz
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany.
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