Long term results from percutaneous radiofrequency neurotomy on posterior primary ramus in patients with chronic low back pain.

PURPOSE We report on our experience of percutaneous radiofrequency neurotomy (PRN) on the posterior primary ramus (PPR) with at least two years follow-up. METHODS 228 patients underwent PRN on the PPR for refractory low back pain. 128 patients met the inclusion criteria of facetal originated pain (group II), while 100 patients did not (group I). Radiofrequency (RF) procedures were applied in the usual manner. Pain relief was assessed at 1 week, 1 month, 6 months and 2 years using visual analog scale (VAS). FINDINGS Positive responders were 56% at 1 week, 46% at 1 month, 18% at 6 months, and 13% at 2 years after PRN in group I, and 78.9% at 1 week, 75.4% at 1 month, 62.5% at 6 months, and 54.7% at 2 years in group II. Prominent local tenderness, percussion tenderness, pain on getting up, extension and transitional movement, radiating pain on buttock and/or posterior thigh, and good immediate response were found to be significantly related to good outcome. CONCLUSION PRN on the PPR has long-term beneficial effects. Long-term good results can be achieved after proper selection of patients with facet joint related low back pain.