Today, the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (AAPM&R) responded to the BMJ’s Clinical Practice Guideline titled, “Commonly Used Interventional Procedures for Non-Cancer Chronic Spine: A Clinical Practice Guideline,” by Wang et al. through a letter submitted to BMJ.
A select group of AAPM&R members with expertise in clinical practice guideline development and in pain management evaluated the BMJ guideline using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research & Evaluation (AGREE) II Tool. Based on their evaluation process, the AAPM&R rejects the value of the “Commonly Used Interventional Procedures for Non-Cancer Chronic Spine Pain” Guideline. To understand this decision, please see our full detailed rationale regarding our concerns.
The Academy’s rejection of the guideline implies that the guideline does not meet AAPM&R standards and is not viewed as a benefit for membership of AAPM&R. Furthermore, we feel it would have a negative impact on patient care if implemented in medical practice. In the response to BMJ, we expressed grave concern that the recommendations in the current guideline will restrict access to necessary treatments that are provided by PM&R physicians and can significantly benefit patients with chronic pain. AAPM&R also acknowledged the need for further rigorous scientific research and evidence focused on treatment of patients with non-cancer chronic spine pain.