Critical Evaluations of Intra-Articular Platelet Rich Plasma Alone or Combination With Medial Branch Radiofrequency Neurotomy in Patients With Lumbar Facet Joint Arthropathy: A Prospective Outcome Study

Abstract

Background: Common cause of chronic low back pain is lumbar facet joint arthropathy. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of medial branch currently preferred treatment in facet joint pain syndrome. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is known to initiate mesenchymal tissue healing by concentration of several fundamental protein growth factors. Our aim in this study is to evaluate the effect of co-administration of autologous PRP in lumbar facet and RFA of the medial branch of the dorsal ramus for lumbar facet arthropathy. Methodology: This was a prospective randomised study with a blind assessor. Eighty-one consecutive patients who complained of low back pain secondary to lumbar facet joint arthropathy were randomly allocated into three-groups: Group RF: only RFA done. Group PR: received both PRP plus RFA. Group PL: received only PRP. Primary outcome of the study was assessment of pain intensity using visual analogue scale (VAS). Result: The patients who had both RFA and PRP therapy had significant decrease in VAS score as compared to its baseline in the immediate and long term follow up period ([Formula: see text] 0.001). However, for those who received only PRP, the decrease in VAS was more significant at 1 and 4 months. Similarly, there was a significant improvement in ODI score in patients who received both RFA and PRP ([Formula: see text] 0.001). There was a gradual improvement in ODI in PRP group at 4-month interval. Rescue analgesics requirement was reduced and patients were better satisfied in those who received both RFA and PRP therapy. ([Formula: see text] 0.05). Conclusion: The combined administration of RFA and PRP proved to provide better analgesia in both short-term follow up and long-term follow up than treatment with either method in patients with lumbar facet syndrome.