Lumbar radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is increasingly used for the treatment of facet-mediated chronic low back pain (LBP). However, variability among clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) has created inconsistencies in patient selection, procedural technique, and interpretation of evidence, potentially contributing to variation in practice patterns and healthcare utilization.

This scoping review summarizes the current landscape of published CPGs related to lumbar RFA. Searches of PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus (January 1994–May 2025) identified nine eligible guidelines that included recommendations for lumbar RFA in subacute or chronic LBP. Guidelines focusing only on acute pain, diagnostic protocols, or imaging were excluded.

Across the nine CPGs, notable differences were found in terminology, diagnostic criteria for facet joint pain, procedural indications, and follow-up protocols. The strength, detail, and scope of recommendations varied, ranging from single-society publications to multispecialty consensus statements.

Overall, there is significant variability in guideline recommendations for lumbar RFA, which may lead to inconsistent clinical practices and outcomes. Identifying and analyzing these discrepancies provides a foundation for improving future guideline development and promoting methodological consistency across societies.