Multicentric prospective study on computed tomography-guided periradicular infiltration and facet joint infiltration

Area of Science:

• Pain Medicine
• Interventional Radiology
• Spinal Surgery

Background:

• Radicular and facet joint pain significantly impact daily life and work.
• Effective minimally invasive treatment options are crucial for managing spinal pain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the success of CT-guided periradicular and facet joint infiltrations.
• To assess pain reduction and functional improvement in patients with lumbar spine pain.

Main Methods:

• Prospective enrollment of 114 patients across nine German centers.
• CT-guided infiltrations for radicular or facet joint symptoms.
• Systematic patient surveys with pain questionnaires and Numerical Rating Scales.

Main Results:

• Significant reduction in pain levels and frequency up to three months post-intervention.
• Substantial improvement in pain-related characteristics, daily life impairment, and fitness for work/leisure.
• High patient satisfaction (62-100%), reduced sick leave (23.7% to 1.9%), and no major complications.

Conclusions:

• CT-guided pain therapy for the lumbar spine is effective and safe.
• Offers comprehensive patient benefits beyond pain reduction, including functional improvements.
• Demonstrates significant positive outcomes for patients undergoing spinal pain interventions.