Media reporting on steroid facet joint injections use
Published: 09/04/2018
Members and Fellows will be aware of articles in national newspapers today on the use of steroid facet joint injections e.g. https://www.thetimes.co.uk/edition/news/useless-jab-for-back-pain-costs-nhs-40m-a-year-pkfdtvjnx
It is important to recognise that the NICE guidance (NG59) on non-specific back pain and sciatica has strict criteria on when the only recognised interventional option is lumbar facet radiofrequency denervation after a successful medial branch block, and should be familiar with the inclusion and exclusion criteria within the document. Pro-active discussions with local CCGs, and CCG groups, are essential in maintaining good practice and quality of care.