A study of subcutaneous rhizolysis in the treatment of chronic backache.

Subcutaneous rhizolysis is defined as cutting the nerves to the posterior intervertebral joints. Although a blind procedure, it has proved safe in several centres and provides relief of pain in about two thirds of those who suffer from intractable, persistent backache. Some conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis and previous spinal fusion are clinically unsuitable, but this technique, which is described, is recommended for consideration before all major surgical procedures for back pain are undertaken.