The role of intra-articular injection of autologous Platelet Rich Plasma versus Corticosteroids in treatment of synovitis in Lumbar Facet joint disease

Abstract

Back pain is a growing problem worldwide, incurring enormous economic costs and disability. Current treatment modalities often provide adequate relief but fail to address underlying conditions. Recently the attention has increased towards the Facet joint disease which is a condition in which the joints of the spine become a source of low back pain. It is a very common disease process and its prevalence increases with aging. Treatment of chronic LBP arising due to facet joint includes intraarticular injections, medial branch blocks, and radiofrequency neurotomy. Lumbar facet joint injections are useful in the diagnosis and therapeutic management of chronic LBP. The injections are performed by various techniques, however only the fluoroscopic-guided technique is considered reliable. Steroid is one of the most commonly used injected drugs; however, previous studies have indicated that the long-term relief of low back pain after intra-articular steroid injection is only 18% to 63%. Intraarticular steroids injection also showed various side effects including; steroid induced hyperglycemia, gastrointestinal symptoms, vertigo/dizziness, glaucoma, and urticaria. Therefore, it seems meaningful to apply a new injectable drug and to prove its effectiveness and safety for the treatment of lumbar facet joint disease.