So-called facet denervation in the management of intractable back pain

Attempted denervation of the zygapophyseal joint with radio-frequency coagulation techniques has been proposed as a method for treatment of pain of spinal origin. This study reports an appraisal of the method as applied to 149 patients selected from a population of 234 individuals with intractable spinal pain. Those selected for radiofrequency coagulation were patients who obtained temporary relief from local anesthetic blockade of the zygapophyseal joints. An overall 40% of patients achieved satisfactory relief from the “denervation.” In those with no prior spinal surgery, 61% were improved by the method. Only 26% of those having had prior surgery claimed benefit. Follow-up time ranged between 6 and 30 months.