Postoperative pain is an inevitable consequence of spine surgery, yet there remains no universal consensus on the optimal pain management strategy. The complexity of spine procedures, coupled with patient variability, necessitates a multifaceted approach to pain control. Over time, numerous strategies have emerged, each with varying levels of effectiveness. Pharmacological approaches, including multimodal analgesia, local anesthetic infusions, and gabapentinoids, provide relief for both acute and chronic pain. Additionally, perioperative strategies such as enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols have demonstrated benefits in optimizing pain control and recovery outcomes. Beyond pharmacological interventions, physical therapy has become a cornerstone of postoperative pain management, aiding in functional recovery and reducing reliance on medications. For patients with refractory or chronic pain, neuromodulatory techniques such as spinal cord stimulation and intrathecal injections offer alternative solutions. Despite the breadth of evidence-based strategies available, limitations persist, including opioid dependence, the complexity of multimodal regimens leading to suboptimal compliance, and cases of refractory pain. These challenges underscore the importance of tailoring pain management approaches to individual patient needs, ensuring a balance between effectiveness and safety. This narrative review of evidence seeks to explore the multifaceted nature of pain management following spine surgery, highlighting the challenges and evolving strategies in optimizing patient outcomes.
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Objective Facet joint injections (FJIs) and medial branch blocks (MBBs) are commonly used interventions for chronic spinal pain, but their comparative effectiveness remains unclear. This meta-analysis aimed to compare the pain relief, functional improvement, complications, and patient satisfaction associated with FJI and MBB.
Methods A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials and observational studies were conducted. Primary outcomes included pain relief (numerical rating scale) and functional improvement (Oswestry Disability Index [ODI]/Neck Disability Index). Secondary outcomes assessed adverse effects and patient satisfaction. The differences in characteristics between patients who were readmitted and those who were not were identified and analyzed using the Review Manager software.
Results FJI resulted in lower pain and ODI scores compared to MBB, but the differences were not statistically significant. However, patient satisfaction was significantly higher in the FJI group (odds ratio, 1.81; 95% confidence interval, 1.02–3.24; p=0.04). Additionally, FJI had fewer adverse effects than MBB.
Conclusion Both FJI and MBB are effective for chronic spinal pain, but FJI may be preferred for patients seeking immediate pain relief with fewer complications. Further high-quality studies are needed to refine treatment guidelines.
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