New Study Reveals Basivertebral Nerve Ablation Eases Chronic Back Pain

Chronic low back pain affects millions globally, often significantly diminishing quality of life. A recent study led by Dr. Charles Odonkor at Yale University demonstrates that basivertebral nerve ablation can provide rapid and lasting relief for patients suffering from this debilitating condition. Published in the journal Interventional Pain Medicine, the research indicates that this innovative treatment effectively addresses vertebrogenic pain, which originates from damage to the vertebrae rather than the spinal discs.

The procedure targets the basivertebral nerve, responsible for transmitting pain signals from damaged vertebral endplates to the brain. By deactivating this nerve, doctors can significantly reduce the pain experienced by patients who have not responded to traditional treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or spinal injections.

Rapid and Sustained Pain Relief

In the study involving 86 patients with MRI-confirmed vertebral endplate changes, participants reported substantial pain relief within weeks of undergoing basivertebral nerve ablation. By the end of the first week, 34% of patients experienced at least a 50% reduction in pain. This percentage increased to 76% by the third week and reached 91% by week six. The improvements in pain levels remained consistent and sustained throughout the 24 weeks of follow-up, highlighting the long-term effectiveness of the procedure.

Dr. Odonkor remarked, “The rapid onset of pain relief was one of the most striking findings of our study. Many patients see meaningful improvements within the first few weeks, which is encouraging for those who have been suffering from chronic pain for an extended period.”

Enhanced Functional Ability

The study also assessed functional improvements using the Oswestry Disability Index, a measure of disability related to lower back pain. Prior to treatment, participants averaged a score of 66.5, indicating severe disability. This score significantly decreased to 32.3 at the 12-week mark, with improvements maintained through the 24-week follow-up. Dr. Odonkor emphasized that functional recovery is as crucial as pain relief, stating, “Our patients not only felt less pain but could also perform daily activities with greater ease.”

The study identified that nearly 62% of patients experienced a minimum of 50% pain relief by the sixth week. Notably, patients who reported early pain reduction were more likely to sustain their improvements over time. Those achieving at least 50% pain relief by week three were particularly likely to maintain that relief at 12 weeks and beyond. This insight allows clinicians to better tailor treatment plans and manage patient expectations effectively.

Reduction in Need for Additional Treatments

Before undergoing basivertebral nerve ablation, 86% of participants relied on spinal injections for pain management. Post-treatment, this figure dropped dramatically to 22%, indicating that the procedure not only alleviates pain but also reduces the necessity for further invasive treatments.

Dr. Odonkor concluded, “Our study provides compelling evidence that basivertebral nerve ablation offers a durable solution for patients with chronic low back pain. This treatment can significantly enhance their quality of life, providing relief that is both rapid and sustained.”

As further research is carried out, including studies on larger populations and over extended periods, the findings from this study affirm basivertebral nerve ablation as a promising option for those suffering from chronic vertebrogenic low back pain.