Effectiveness of Intraarticular and L5 Dorsal Ramus Pulsed Radiofrequency Neurotomy For the Treatment of Sacroiliac Joint Related Back Pain

WOS: 000373722800007Objective: In this study, we aimed to retrospectively evaluate the effectiveness of pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) intraarticular and L5-dorsal ramus (L5DR) neurotomy to treat intractable sacroiliac joint (SIJ) releated back pain. Material and Method: The medical charts of thirtysix patients with SIJ pain who underwent treatment with PRF intraarticular and ipsilateral L5DR neurotomy were indentified. Patients were selected for treatment based on physical examination and positive response (>= 50% pain relief) to an intraarticular SIJ block. PRF was applied to the SIJ and L5DR for 15 min at 2 Hz with a pulse width of 10 ms and 65 V under flouroscopy. Visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores, medication usage and quality of life were retrospectively evaluated before and, 3 weeks, 3 and 6 months after the treatment. After 6 months, patients satisfaction levels were determined. Results: A Significant decrease in mean VAS scores from baseline was observed in all follow-up periods, as follows: 7.6+/-1.4 to 2.3+/-1.1, 1.6+/-1.0, and 2.1+/-1.1 respectively (p