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Radiofrequency Denervation of Facet Joints C2-C6 in
Cerviocogenic Headache: A Randomized, double-blind,
sham-controlled study
Stovner LJ, Kolstad F, Helde G
Posted: February 2006  
Cephalalgia 2004;24:821-830

Cerviogenic headache is still a controversial disease entity, and good and reliable treatment is lacking. In the present randomized, sham-controlled, patient and evaluator blinded study, 12 patients with disabling, long-standing and treatment-resistant strictly unilateral cervicogenic headache sere included. The diagnosis was based on purely clinical criteria. Six were randomized to receive radiofrequency neurotomy of facet joints C2-C6 ipsilateral to the pain, and six were randomized to sham treatment. Patients were followed for 2 years with diary registration of pain for 14 day periods after 1, 3, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months, and also followed with algometry and neck mobility measurements at 3, 12, and 24 months. Side effects were minor and short-lasting, and those patients who were treated with neurotomy were somewhat improved at 3 months, but later there were no marked differences between the groups. In conclusion, the procedure is probably not beneficial in cerviogenic headache.