O3054 REDUCED DISABILITY AFTER INTRA-ARTICULAR FACET JOINT INJECTION FOR LOW BACK PAIN

Abstract

Aims: To assess the effectiveness of intra-articular facet joint injections in controlling disability in patients with low back pain. Methods: 100 consecutive patients admitted in our day case unit for facet joint injections were included in the study. Fluoroscopically controlled intra-articular facet joint block with injection of a local anaesthetic and corticosteroid suspension was performed after clinical and radiological assessment. Disability due to back pain was assessed by determining a revised Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Index (Oswestry Score). The patients completed a questionnaire immediately prior to treatment, two weeks following injection and three months following injection. Results: Facet joint injections were performed for intervertebral disc prolapse (66%), spondylolysthesis (13%), spinal stenosis (10%), spondylosis (7%), and sacro-iliac joint pain (4%). The mean Oswestry Score prior to injection was 40.6% (95% conþdence interval 4.4), at two weeks following injection was 26.6% (95% conþdence interval 4.9) and at three months following injection was 21.5% (95% conþdence interval 4.8). 78% of the patients found the facet joint injections useful at 2 weeks following treatment and this þgure was maintained (79%) at 3 months after injection. No complications were reported following treatment. Conclusions: We have found intra-articular facet joint block for the treatment of low back pain a valid therapeutic option, acceptable by the patients and with negligible risks.