Comparative Efficacy and Safety of Feng's Technique versus Radiofrequency Denervation for Cervical and Lumbar Facet Joint Pain: A Retrospective Study.

BACKGROUND

Facet joint-mediated pain represents a major etiology of chronic spinal pain, posing persistent challenges in clinical management. We propose a novel technique-Feng's technique-which provides a novel and effective strategy for the treatment of facet joint-related pain.

METHODS

This retrospective study analyzed 221 patients with cervical and lumbar facet joint pain treated between May 2020 and December 2021. Participants were divided into two groups: the Feng's technique group and the radiofrequency denervation group. Pain intensity was evaluated using the visual analog scale, while health-related quality of life (QoL) was assessed via the Short Form 36 questionnaire. Follow-ups were conducted pretreatment, and at 3 and 6 months post-treatment. Patient satisfaction and post-treatment complications were systematically recorded.

RESULTS

The mean visual analog scale and Short Form 36 scores showed statistically significant improvements post-treatment compared to baseline (P < 0.001), with no significant differences observed between the Feng's technique and radiofrequency denervation groups (P > 0.05). However, overall patient satisfaction was significantly higher in the Feng's technique group (81.4% [70/86] vs. 68.9% [84/122], P = 0.042). The incidence of complications was notably lower in the Feng's technique group (8.1% [7/86] vs. 18.0% [22/122], P = 0.043), with a significantly higher prevalence of sensory abnormalities in the radiofrequency denervation group (7.4% [14/122] vs. 1.2% [1/86], P = 0.039).

CONCLUSIONS

Feng's technique has shown significant potential as a minimally invasive solution for cervical and lumbar facet joint pain, with initial studies indicating excellent safety and therapeutic effectiveness.