Chronic low back pain can be debilitating, affecting every aspect of your life. If traditional treatments like physical therapy, medication, or even injections haven’t provided the relief you need, the Intracept Procedure may be a viable option. At Ortho Sport & Spine, we specialize in minimally invasive procedures that target the root cause of your pain, offering long-lasting relief with minimal disruption to your life. The Intracept Procedure is a revolutionary approach designed to treat chronic low back pain by addressing specific nerves within the spine.
What is the Intracept Procedure?
The Intracept Procedure is a minimally invasive surgery specifically developed to treat chronic low back pain originating from the vertebral endplates. This condition is often referred to as vertebrogenic pain, which is distinct from other types of back pain caused by discs or facet joints. The procedure targets the basivertebral nerve, which is responsible for transmitting pain signals from the vertebrae to the brain. By ablating (destroying) this nerve, the Intracept Procedure effectively reduces or eliminates pain at its source.
How Does the Intracept Procedure Work to Relieve Back Pain?
The Intracept Procedure involves the following steps:
- Preparation: Under general anesthesia, the patient is positioned to allow easy access to the lower back.
- Guided Access: Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, a small incision is made, and a specialized probe is inserted through the vertebra to reach the basivertebral nerve.
- Nerve Ablation: The probe uses radiofrequency energy to heat and ablate the basivertebral nerve, thereby preventing it from transmitting pain signals.
- Completion: The probe is removed, and the incision is closed. The entire procedure typically takes about 60 to 90 minutes.
Because the Intracept Procedure is minimally invasive, patients often experience a quicker recovery time compared to traditional spinal surgeries. Most patients are able to return home the same day and resume normal activities within a few days to a week.
Who is a Candidate for the Intracept Procedure?
The Intracept Procedure is recommended for patients who:
- Have chronic low back pain lasting six months or more.
- Have not found relief through conservative treatments like physical therapy, medications, or injections.
- Are diagnosed with vertebrogenic pain, confirmed by MRI showing Modic changes (a specific type of spinal degeneration) in the vertebrae.
- Are seeking a minimally invasive solution to avoid more extensive spinal surgery.
It’s important to undergo a thorough evaluation with our spine specialists at Ortho Sport & Spine to determine if the Intracept Procedure is the right option for your condition.
Benefits of the Minimally-Invasive Intracept Procedure
The Intracept Procedure offers several key benefits, including:
- Minimally Invasive: Small incisions and precise targeting of the basivertebral nerve mean less tissue damage and a quicker recovery.
- Effective Pain Relief: By addressing the nerve responsible for vertebrogenic pain, the Intracept Procedure offers a targeted approach that can significantly reduce or eliminate chronic low back pain.
- Quick Recovery: Most patients are able to return to their daily activities within a few days, with minimal discomfort.
- Reduced Need for Medication: Many patients experience such effective pain relief that they can reduce or eliminate their reliance on pain medications.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Intracept Procedure
- 1. How long does it take to see results after the Intracept Procedure?
- While some patients experience immediate relief, it may take several weeks to feel the full benefits of the procedure as the nerve ablation process completes.
- 2. Is the Intracept Procedure permanent?
- Yes, the ablation of the basivertebral nerve is permanent, meaning the targeted nerve will no longer transmit pain signals. However, as with any procedure, individual results may vary.
- 3. What are the risks associated with the Intracept Procedure?
- The Intracept Procedure is considered low-risk, especially compared to traditional spinal surgeries. However, potential risks include infection, bleeding, or nerve damage, though these are rare.
- 4. Can the Intracept Procedure be repeated if necessary?
- Since the procedure targets and destroys the specific nerve causing pain, it generally does not need to be repeated. However, if new pain arises from other areas of the spine, alternative treatments may be necessary.
- 5. Will my insurance cover the Intracept Procedure?
- Coverage for the Intracept Procedure varies depending on your insurance provider. Our team at Ortho Sport & Spine will work with you and your insurer to determine coverage and any out-of-pocket costs.
Take the Next Step Towards Pain Relief
If chronic low back pain has been holding you back, the Intracept Procedure may be the solution you’ve been searching for. Contact Ortho Sport & Spine today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how this innovative treatment can help you reclaim your life.