A statistical analysis of percutaneous radiofrequency lesions in the treatment of chronic low back pain and sciatica.

A statistical analysis of 61 consecutive patients who underwent facet denervation for chronic low back pain and sciatica showed that the average patient improved with lower pain estimates and use of narcotics, while activity levels increased. At 1-2 year follow-up there was a trend for patients to report an increase in their pain estimate although they maintained consistently high acativity levels and low analgesic intake.