Vertebrogenic Low Back Pain and Basivertebral Nerve Ablation: A Review of Mechanisms, Imaging-Driven Selection, and Clinical Outcomes.

Background

Vertebrogenic low back pain (LBP) is a distinct subtype of chronic LBP (cLBP) arising from nociceptive sensitization of the basivertebral nerve (BVN) within pathologically altered vertebral endplates. Modic type 1 and type 2 changes on MRI are primary imaging biomarkers for patient selection. Basivertebral nerve ablation (BVNA), a minimally invasive intraosseous radiofrequency procedure, has emerged as a targeted treatment for this condition. This narrative review aims to synthesize current evidence on the pathophysiology of vertebrogenic LBP, patient selection criteria, procedural outcomes, safety profile, and cost-effectiveness of BVNA.

Methods

We conducted this narrative review of the literature, encompassing randomized controlled trials (including the SMART and INTRACEPT studies), prospective registries, and real-world cohort studies evaluating BVNA for vertebrogenic LBP. Clinical and imaging-based selection criteria, procedural techniques, outcome measures, adverse events, opioid utilization, and healthcare utilization data were examined.

Results

Evidence demonstrates consistent and durable reductions in pain and disability following BVNA, with a favorable safety profile. Complication rates are low, with vertebral compression fracture and procedure-related radicular pain reported as the most frequent adverse events. BVNA is associated with reduced opioid consumption and decreased overall healthcare utilization. Moreover, emerging data suggest efficacy beyond originally defined inclusion criteria, including cases of osteoporosis, multilevel Modic changes, adult spinal deformity, and complex comorbid presentations.

Conclusions

BVNA represents an effective and safe treatment option within the multimodal management of vertebrogenic LBP. Current evidence supports a gradual expansion of procedural indications, with implications for healthcare resource optimization and opioid stewardship.