A Placebo-Controlled Study Assessing Lateral Branch Radiofrequency Denervation for Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Pain

In order to determine whether L4 and L5 primary dorsal rami and S1-3 lateral branch radiofrequency denervation is effective for sacroiliac (SI) joint pain, we are conducting a randomized, controlled study.

30 subjects with SI joint pain confirmed by SI joint injections will be randomized to receive either L4 and L5 primary dorsal rami and S1-3 lateral branch radiofrequency denervation or sham denervation. To facilitate patient blinding, in both groups 1 ml of lidocaine will be injected before true (or sham) denervation so patients cannot feel heating. The stimulation will be the same for both groups and blinding assessed after the procedure. Follow-up visits will be at 1,3 and 6-months postprocedure.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Sacroiliac joint pain
• Age > 18

Exclusion Criteria:

• No focal neurological signs or symptoms, coagulopathy, unstable medical or psychiatric condition