Use of pulsed radiofrequency in failed back surgery syndrome

Failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) is a well-recognized complication of spinal surgery. Pulse radiofrequency of dorsal root ganglion has been recently described for such patients. In this report, pulsed radiofrequency was applied in 3 patients with failed back surgery syndrome, presenting with severe pain. Reasonable to good pain relief was achieved in 2 patients in 6 months follow-up, however, one patient got short-term pain relief. Based on this limited experience in FBSS where conventional and non-conventional treatments are not effective, pulsed radiofrequency may be considered a logical choice.