Conventional radio-frequency ablation in laminectomy- and discectomy-induced complex regional pain syndrome

Abstract

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) following lumbar spine surgery is a rare and underdiagnosed clinical entity. This case report discusses CRPS of the left lower limb following lumbar spine laminectomy and discectomy done for left lumbar radiculopathy secondary to disc herniation. CRPS was diagnosed by the exclusion of other possible diagnoses. The Budapest Criteria were applied for a definitive diagnosis. We treated the patient with conventional radio-frequency ablation of the sympathetic ganglion at L2 and L4 after a successful diagnostic block. He had significant relief in pain for the next 6 months.