The utility of diagnostic selective nerve root blocks in the management of patients with lumbar radiculopathy: a systematic review.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Lumbar radiculopathy (LR) often manifests as pain in the lower back radiating into one leg (sciatica). Unsuccessful back surgery is associated with significant healthcare costs and risks to patients. This review aims to examine the diagnostic accuracy of selective nerve root blocks (SNRBs) to identify patients most likely to benefit from lumbar decompression surgery.

Design

Systematic review of diagnostic test accuracy studies.

Eligibility criteria

Primary research articles using a patient population with low back pain and symptoms in the leg, SNRB administered under radiological guidance as index test, and any reported reference standard for the diagnosis of LR.

Information sources

MEDLINE (Ovid), MEDLINE In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations, EMB

SUBMITTER: Beynon R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6500311 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature