Rhizolysis: An Unusual Postoperative Complication

Percutaneous retrogasserian glycerol rhizolysis, introduced in 1981, has become established in the management of trigeminal neuralgia secondary to multiple sclerosis and pontine infarction. More recently, this technique was established as safe and reliable in managing pain originating from the zygapophyseal joints, with successful relief of pain in 67% of patients treated for lower back pain. In this article, we report a case of complete paralysis of lumbar paravertebral muscle function caused by severe multifidus degeneration after 3-level lumbar rhizolysis. This paralysis resulted in kyphosis and loss of sagittal balance.