Comparison of the Efficacy Between Intradiscal Gelified Ethanol (Discogel) Injection and Intradiscal Combination of Pulsed Radiofrequency and Gelified Ethanol (Discogel) Injection for Chronic Discogenic Low Back Pain Treatment. A Randomized Double-Blind Clinical Study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to compare two new techniques, intradiscal gelified ethanol injection (Discogel) and the combination of intradiscal pulsed radiofrequency and gelified ethanol injection (PRF+Discogel), regarding their efficacy in discogenic low back pain treatment. DESIGN: Randomized, double-blind, clinical study. METHODS: The final sample was randomized into group A (N = 18, D) and group B (N = 18, PRF+D). During the procedure, four patients from group B were excluded from the study. Groups A and B were assessed regarding the pain score (VAS 0-10), before the interventional procedures, and one, three, six, and 12 months after. Secondary objectives of the study were to compare the two groups regarding the results of the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire, Lanss score, and quality of life score (EQ-5D). RESULTS: There was no significant evidence for an overall difference in pain score between the two groups (analysis of variance, F = 3.24, df = 1, P = 0.084), except for the sixth and 12th months, when group B presented a statistically important difference compared with group A (Wilcoxon test). Group B appeared to be more effective, with a statistically significant difference, compared with group A regarding the secondary objectives of the study. CONCLUSIONS: After rigorous and comprehensive assessment by an independent observer, both Discogel alone and Discogel in combination with pulsed radiofrequency produced tangible improvements in pain, function, quality of life, and consumption of analgesics, which were sustained at 12 months.