Background Context: Lumbar radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an intervention used to treat facet-mediated chronic low back pain. In some studies with methods consistent with clinical practice guidelines, RFA results in improvements in pain and functional limitations. However, in other studies, RFA demonstrates limited benefit. Despite unanswered questions regarding efficacy of RFA, its use is widespread. Purpose: To describe trends in the utilization and cost of lumbar RFA and lumbar facet injections. Study Design/ Setting: Retrospective cohort study. Patient Sample: The sample was derived from the IBM/Watson MarketScan ® Commercial Claims and Encounters Databases from 2007-2016. Outcome Measures: Longitudinal trends in the distribution and quantity of lumbar facet injections before lumbar RFA, corticosteroid administration during lumbar facet injections, progression to lumbar RFA after lumbar facet injections, lumbar RFA utilization, and costs of these interventions. Methods: Two primary cohorts were identified from patients who received lumbar RFA or lumbar facet injection procedures. Utilization rates per 100,000 enrollees were determined for both

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