Percutaneous Neurolysis with Continuous Radiofrequency Energy for the Treatment of Symptomatic Sacroiliac Joints: Study of Clinical Safety and Efficacy

Abstract

Purpose: To prove safety and efficacy of percutaneous neurolysis with continuous radiofrequency energy for the treatment of symptomatic sacroiliac joints in a series of consecutive patients. Materials and methods: During the last 2 years, 15 patients suffering from low back pain due to degenerative disorder of the sacroiliac joint underwent percutaneous neurolysis with continuous radiofrequency energy. Under extended local sterility and fluoroscopy 4 cannulas were placed along the sacral foramina and at the L5- S1 level and neurolysis session was performed post motor and sensory evaluation test. NVS pain scores prior and post therapy were compared using Paired Samples t-Test and Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test. Results: Mean pain score prior to any therapy was 8.05±1.449 NVS units. Mean pain score post therapy was 2.37 ± 2.715, 2.42 ± 2.754, 2.70 ± 2.928 and 3.55 ± 2.837 NVS units at 1, 6, 12, 24 months. The comparison of the patients’ selfreported outcomes concerning pain reduction and mobility improvement prior and post therapy is statistically significant (p<0.001). No complication was noted. Conclusion: Percutaneous neurolysis with continuous radiofrequency energy seems to be a safe and efficient technique for the treatment of symptomatic, sacro-illiac joints resulting in significant pain reduction and mobility improvement. Proper patient selection is a prerequisite for high success rate.