Comparison of Pain Score Reduction Using Triamcinolone Vs. Betamethasone in Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injections for Lumbosacral Radicular Pain

Abstract

Background: Results from studies on individuals with radicular pain and radiculopathy have demonstrated that lumbar transforaminal epidural steroid injections (TFESIs) can alleviate pain and improve physical functionality. In certain cases, TFESIs are cost-effective, and research has shown that they have a surgical sparing effect.
Aim: To compare the reduction of pain scores when TFESIs are administered for lumbosacral radicular pain, utilizing triamcinolone or betamethasone.
Materials and methods: This meta-analysis was performed on 3 trails, including a total of 4271 patients, according to the guidelines by the Cochrane Collaboration. All studies adhered to the PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews and meta-analyses whenever possible.
Results: The publication year ranged from 2009 to 2015. 2 studies were conducted in USA; 1 study was conducted in Turky. There are two study results that can be utilized (Follow up VAS). A significant amount of variation was found. So, the analysis was conducted utilizing a random-effect model (I² = 99%, P<0.00001). Along with the 95% CIs, the combined mean difference was -0.93 (-1.20 to -0.66). There is a statistically significant distinction among the groups when it comes to the Follow up VAS (Z = 6.70, P <0.00001), consistent with the combined result.
Conclusion: In a short-term follow-up, individuals who had triamcinolone by transforaminal epidural steroid injection rather than betamethasone reported more frequent pain alleviation. In order to establish that triamcinolone is superior to betamethasone in treating lumbosacral radicular pain, more research is required.