Long-term Efficacy of Radiofrequency Neurotomy for Chronic Zygapophysial (Facet) Joint Related Neck Pain

Chronic neck pain represents a common health problem. The mechanisms appear to be multifactorial. Researchers have suggested a disturbed interplay between the deep neck muscles and facet joints. In Europe and the US radiofrequency neurotomy has become a common treatment. The evidence base, however, is still insufficient. Thus, a double blind, sham-controlled, randomized, single-center trial is carried out. Based on current data and a single center study design, 34 randomized participants, completing the trial, have shown adequate to obtain sufficient statistical power. To simplify the data collection a digital internet based program is used. Patients with chronic unilateral neck pain, referred to Oslo University Hospital or responding to public announcements, and not responding to non-interventional treatment will be screened. Those who are found eligible and achieve ≥50% pain relief after predictive and comparative test blocks, will be included in the study. We will further test whether a strict selection of ≥80% pain relief better predicts efficacious RF neurotomy compared with a less strict selection of ≥50% to <80%. After 6 months participants who received sham and still suffer from neck pain, will be offered unblinded RF neurotomy and additional 12 month unblinded follow up if the results support this treatment. Demographic and clinical data will be recorded at baseline. The primary and secondary outcome measurements are recollected after 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. Primary outcome measurements include self-reported neck function (NDI) and pain relief after 6 months. Regression analyses will be used to identify how pain relief of two test blocks and pain catastrophizing predict response to RF neurotomy. If RF neurotomy is found superior to sham treatment, this may be implemented in the national treatment program for selected patients with chronic neck pain.