Efficacy and Cost: Benefit Ratio of 0, 1, and 2 Medial Branch Blocks for Lumbar Facet Joint Radiofrequency Denervation

Radiofrequency of medial branches that innervate the lumbar facet joints

Diagnostic medial branch block with 0.5% bupivacaine. Blocking the nerves that innervate the facet joints with a long-acting local anesthetic.

Diagnostic medial branch block with 2% lidocaine. Blocking the nerves that innervate the facet joints with a short-acting local anesthetic.

Radiofrequency lumbar facet denervation without a diagnostic block

Radiofrequency lumbar facet denervation only if positive response to 2 diagnostic blocks.

Lumbar facet radiofrequency denervation if positive response to a single diagnostic facet block

Radiofrequency lumbar facet denervation without a diagnostic facet block.