An Expedited Diagnostic Algorithm for Lumbosacral Pain: "The Best Likelihood Scenario Approach"

Milan P Stojanovic; Andrew J Engel

doi:10.1111/pme.12839

An Expedited Diagnostic Algorithm for Lumbosacral Pain: "The Best Likelihood Scenario Approach"

Pain Med. 2015 Dec;16(12):2271-6. doi: 10.1111/pme.12839. Epub 2015 Jul 14.

Authors

Milan P Stojanovic¹, Andrew J Engel²

Affiliations

¹ Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine Service, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
² Affordable Pain Management, Chicago, Illinois, USA.

PMID: 26179137
DOI: 10.1111/pme.12839

Abstract

Introduction: The logic behind diagnostic blocks is very straightforward. What has not been determined is the way diagnostic blocks can be best used.

Study design: Philosophical essay.

Discussion: The interventional pain management physician would serve as the diagnostic expert by efficiently determining the source of the patient's pain.

Conclusion: "The Best Likelihood Scenario" might improve diagnostic accuracy while decreasing societal costs.

Keywords: Block; Chronic Pain; Facet Joints; Medial Branch; Spine; Zygoapophyseal Joint.

Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Algorithms*
Back Pain / diagnosis*
Back Pain / therapy*
Decision Support Techniques*
Humans
Likelihood Functions
Nerve Block / methods*
Pain Measurement / methods*
Reproducibility of Results
Sensitivity and Specificity