Intradiscal radiofrequency thermocoagulation in discogenic pain

Abstract

The lumbar intervertebral discs are one of the major origins of low back pain. Medical therapy, intradiscal procedures and surgery are the treatment modalities in discogenic low back pain. Recently radiofrequency denervation therapy has been used in discogenic pain. We have evaluated the efficacy and complications of application of radiofrequency in discogenic pain. 25 patients who were admitted to the outpatient clinic of Algology Department, diagnosed as discogenic pain were hospitalized for provacative test and if responded positively application of radiofrequency. Under surgical conditions and fluoroscopic guidance provocative test was applied by injection of 2ml of (iohexol and 1 % lidocaine) solution into the related disc. When the response was positive, a 80 degrees 6 minutes lesion was made. The VAS values were recorded before the procedure (VAS0), 24 h after the procedure (VAS1), 8 weeks after the procedure (VAS2). At the end of the 2nd month the patients were found to be 52 % well. No complications were observed due to the technique. We have concluded that application of RFTC in discogenic pain is an effective and safe method when conservative treatment modalities fail.