The Significance of Multifidus Atrophy After Successful Radiofrequency Neurotomy for Low Back Pain

200966 citationsJournal Articlebronze Open Access

Authors

Paul Dreyfuss · Seattle Photonics Associates (United States)

Alison Stout · University of Washington

Charles N. Aprill · Magnolia Solar (United States)

Steve Pollei

Blake A. Johnson · Imaging Center

Nikolai Bogduk · Joint Institute for Nuclear Research

Abstract

This preliminary study provides evidence that successful medial branch RFN for lumbar zygapophysial-mediated pain does cause initial denervation but no discernable segmental atrophy of the multifidus at long-term follow-up. Previous denervation and diffuse atrophy in these subjects was not associated with pain.

Topics & Keywords

Musculoskeletal pain and rehabilitation Spine and Intervertebral Disc Pathology Shoulder Injury and Treatment

UN Sustainable Development Goals

Good health and well-being

Publication Details

Published in: PM&R

Volume 1, Issue 8, pp. 719-722

DOI: 10.1016/j.pmrj.2009.05.014

Field-Weighted Citation Impact: 2.37