Application of Radiofrequency in Low Back Pain Treatment

Serum Beta-endorphin Changes in Lumbar Facet Syndrome Treated with Radiofrequency Lumbar Facet Denervation – A Randomized Controlled Study

“…Conventional RF treatment using a constant output of highfrequency electrical current produces controllable tissue destruction surrounding the tip of the treatment cannula and, when placed at precise anatomic locations, has demonstrated success in reducing a number of different chronic pain states [8]. It has also been occasionally used successfully in the treatment of acute radicular pain in patients who were not suitable for surgical treatment [8].…”

“…Theoretically, facet joint pain can be treated by denervation of the medial branches of the dorsal rami, which supply the sensory innervation to the joints [4][5][6]. After a detailed anatomical study of the lumbar zygapophysial nerve supply by Bogduk and Long in 1979 [2], several studies had shown initial pain relief using radiofrequency (RF) medial branch neurotomy [7,8]. Two main mechanisms contributing to the relief of pain using this approach include the release of endorphins and a local anesthetic effect [9].…”