CT-guided percutaneous radiofrequency denervation of the sacroiliac joint

Defining the origin of low back pain is a challenging task. Among a variety of factors the sacroiliac joint (SIJ) is a possible pain generator, although precise diagnosis is difficult. Joint blocks may reduce pain, but are, in cases, of only temporary effect. This study was conducted to evaluate CT-...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:European radiology 2002-06, Vol.12 (6), p.1360-1365
Main Authors: Gevargez, A, Groenemeyer, D, Schirp, S, Braun, M
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adult
Aged
Anesthesia
Back pain
Denervation
Denervation - methods
Electrodes
Ethanol
Female
Heat
Humans
Ligaments
Low Back Pain - surgery
Male
Middle Aged
Patients
Prospective Studies
Radiation
Sacroiliac Joint - diagnostic imaging
Sacroiliac Joint - innervation
Steroids
Tomography, X-Ray Computed
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Summary:Defining the origin of low back pain is a challenging task. Among a variety of factors the sacroiliac joint (SIJ) is a possible pain generator, although precise diagnosis is difficult. Joint blocks may reduce pain, but are, in cases, of only temporary effect. This study was conducted to evaluate CT-guided percutaneous radiofrequency denervation of the sacroiliac joint in patients with low back pain. The procedure was performed on 38 patients who only temporarily responded to CT-guided SIJ blocks. The denervation was carried out in the posterior interosseous sacroiliac ligaments and on the dorsal rami of the fifth spinal nerve. All interventions were carried out under CT guidance as out-patient therapies. Three months after the therapy, 13 patients (34.2%) were completely free of pain. Twelve patients (31.6%) reported on a substantial pain reduction, 7 patients (18.4%) had obtained a slight and 3 patients (7.9%) no pain reduction. The data of 3 patients (7.9%) was missing. There were no intra- or postoperative complications. Computed tomography-guided percutaneous radiofrequency denervation of the sacroiliac joint appears safe and effective. The procedure may be a useful therapeutic modality, especially in patients with chronic low back pain, who only temporarily respond to therapeutic blocks.
ISSN:0938-7994
1432-1084
DOI:10.1007/s00330-001-1257-2