Predictability of the Effects of Facet Joint Infiltration in the Degenerate Lumbar Spine When Assessing MRI Scans
Predictability of the Effects of Facet Joint Infiltration in the Degenerate Lumbar Spine When Assessing MRI Scans
Fifty MRI scans of patients with chronic lumbar back pain were graded radiologically using a
 wide range of classification and measurement systems. The reported effect of facet joint
 injections at the site was recorded and a comparative analysis performed.
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  patients who had received inpatient gradual diagnostics for chronic lumbar back pain

 -  monosegmental facet joint infiltration on the first day of inpatient gradual
 diagnostics

 -  clearly stated pain relief in percentage (%) for that specific infiltration in the
 medical documentation

 -  pain level prior to infiltration needed to be clearly documented

 -  a high-quality MRI available before infiltration.

 Exclusion Criteria:

 -  ositive history of lumbar surgery or the presence of artificial implants in the area
 of interest