Percutaneous radiofrequency denervation of spinal facets. Treatment for chronic back pain and sciatica.
A technique for radiofrequency localization and coagulation of articular nerves supplying the spinal facets is described and results are reported from a series of 207 patients followed 6 to 21 months (mean 31 months). Relief of pain was achieved in 79% of previously unoperated patients, in 41% of those with laminectomy but no fusion, and in 27% of those with an earlier fusion. No neurological complications were encountered.
D001416:Back Pain / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery*; D003714:Denervation / Q000379:methods*; D004564:Electrocoagulation / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D012585:Sciatica / Q000601:surgery*; D013123:Spinal Fusion; D013126:Spinal Nerve Roots / Q000601:surgery*