Three studies (n=405) were included in the review. All three studies scored 10/15 for study population, 10/10 for adequate description of the test, 10/15 for appropriateness of references standard, 10/15 for reproducibility of reference standard, 15/15 for evaluation of test without knowledge of disease state, 0/15 for independent blind interpretation of test and reference standard and 15/15 for avoidance of verification bias.
There was level II-2 evidence (evidence obtained from at least one properly designed small diagnostic accuracy study) for diagnostic validity of cervical provocation discography. The prevalence of cervical discogenic pain ranged from 16% to 20% (two studies).
Results for 17 studies that reported surgical outcomes that not meet the review inclusion criteria were presented.