Evaluating prognostic block selection criteria in lumbar medical branch radiofrequency neurotomy: A retrospective cohort study

In this cohort, nearly half of patients experienced clinically meaningful pain reduction at 3 months post-LMBRFN, regardless of block selection criteria, challenging the need for restrictive paradigms. However, patients selected by IAB/MBB with 50-79% pain relief were less likely to experience clinically significant improvements to function. Active employment was linked to better 3-month outcomes for both pain and function, highlighting potential psychosocial factors. Larger prospective studies with long-term follow-up are needed to confirm these findings and optimize patient selection for LMBRFN.