An Alternative Technique for Lumbar Medial Branch Radiofrequency: Comparison With the Empirical T… (NCT01300715) | Clinical Trial Compass
UnknownNot Applicable
An Alternative Technique for Lumbar Medial Branch Radiofrequency: Comparison With the Empirical Technique
South Korea100 participantsStarted 2010-11
Plain-language summary
In spite that variable techniques for lumbar MBRF exists, the tunnel vision technique is widely recommended for exact radiofrequency needle placement. However, this method uses the concept of a steep caudocephalad axial tilt of the fluoroscopy beam, which result in unusual appearance of vertebral structures and a long distance from skin to the target site. In our institution, therefore, the investigators have used a modified method that is easy and safe to place RF needle parallel to the lumbar medial branch in oblique fluoroscopic view.
Accordingly, our objectives were to evaluate our modified technique for lumbar MBRF, comparing with the tunnel vision technique, and additionally to assess complications with respect to these two techniques.
Who can participate
Age range
20 Years – 80 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Exclusion criteria
. Duration of low back pain \< 6 mo
. Single diagnostic block
. Prolonged responses to screening or dual-controlled comparative MBBs
. Discogenic pain verified by controlled discography
. Evidence of radiculopathy, as determined by history, physical examination, and radiologic studies
. Structural lumbar spinal deformity
. Rapidly worsening pain, numbness, weakness, hyperreflexia, changes in bladder function, and other neurological symptoms which should prompt a reevaluation and surgical evaluation.
Questions worth asking your doctor
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1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
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Questions for the trial coordinator
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1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.