Complications of lumbar facet radiofrequency denervation.
METHODS
Retrospective.


OBJECTIVE
To assess the incidence of complications associated with fluoroscopically guided percutaneous radiofrequency denervation of the lumbar facet joints.


BACKGROUND
Based on the results of previous efficacy studies, complications associated with facet joint radiofrequency denervation procedures appear to be rare. No formal safety assessment for this procedure has been performed to date.


METHODS
We conducted retrospective chart reviews to identify complications that occurred within 8 weeks of facet joint radiofrequency denervation procedures performed at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville during a 5-year period. Only procedures that included radiofrequency electrode placement between the L1 transverse process and the sacral ala were included. The chart of each patient was reviewed and adjudicated by a panel of 4 physicians before being classified as a complication.


RESULTS
Ninety-two patients received a total of 616 radiofrequency lesions during 116 separate denervation procedures. An average of 5 +/- 3 lesions were performed during each radiofrequency denervation procedure. Six minor complications were identified, yielding a 1.0% overall incidence of minor complications per radiofrequency site. Complications included: 3 cases of localized pain lasting more than 2 weeks (0.5%) and 3 cases of neuritic pain lasting less than 2 weeks (0.5%). No cases of infection, new motor deficits, or new sensory deficits were identified.


CONCLUSIONS
Fluoroscopically guided percutaneous radiofrequency denervation of the lumbar facets is associated with an overall 1.0% incidence of minor complications per lesion site.
Kornick
Craig
C
Department of Anesthesiology, Division of Pain Management, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, USA. kornick@riversidespine.com
Kramarich
S Scott
SS
Lamer
Tim J
TJ
Todd Sitzman
B
B
D000368:Aged; D017115:Catheter Ablation / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003714:Denervation / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005471:Fluoroscopy; D006801:Humans; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D021801:Zygapophyseal Joint / Q000294:innervation / Q000601:surgery*