The Intracept Procedure
Research has shown that vertebral body endplates are a common source of chronic low back pain. Many procedures focus on the discs in-between the two vertebrae. The Intracept procedure focuses on patients that have vertebrogenic pain.
Certainly! The Intracept Procedure is a minimally invasive intervention designed to target and alleviate chronic low back pain originating from the vertebral endplates, a condition referred to as vertebrogenic pain or vertebral endplate pain.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the Intracept Procedure:
Targeting the Basivertebral Nerve: The basivertebral nerve runs within the vertebral body and serves the vertebral endplates. Studies have shown that, in some individuals, changes or damage to the vertebral endplates can lead to chronic low back pain. The Intracept Procedure specifically targets the basivertebral nerve to inhibit its ability to transmit pain signals.
Procedure Process:
- The procedure is conducted using fluoroscopic (x-ray) guidance.
- A specialized probe is inserted into the vertebral body.
- Once correctly positioned, the device delivers radiofrequency energy to ablate the basivertebral nerve. This aims to stop the transmission of pain signals from the affected vertebral endplates.
Minimally Invasive: The Intracept Procedure is minimally invasive, meaning it involves only a small incision and typically results in less postoperative pain and a faster recovery compared to more extensive surgeries.
Recovery: Recovery times can vary, but many patients can return to their normal activities within a few days post-procedure. It’s crucial to follow any specific post-operative instructions given by the treating physician.
Effectiveness: Clinical studies have demonstrated that many patients experience significant and lasting reductions in chronic low back pain after undergoing the Intracept Procedure. However, individual results may vary.
Candidate Suitability: Not everyone with chronic low back pain is a suitable candidate for the Intracept Procedure. A series of diagnostic steps, including MRI scans and discography, might be used to determine if the pain is originating from the vertebral endplates.
Safety: As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks associated with the Intracept Procedure. These can include infection, bleeding, or nerve injury. However, complications are rare and are generally outweighed by the potential benefits for suitable candidates.
The Basivertebral Nerve
Patients suffering from Modic Type 1 or Modic Type 2 changes can see significant reduction in pain by ablating the basivertebral nerve. As shown in the picture, the basivertebral nerve is located in between the vertebrae.
The intracept procedure is a new minimally invasive surgical procedure that is clinically proven to drastically decrease chronic low back pain up to 24 months. This is one of many interventional pain procedures we can perform at our outpatient surgery centers in Florida.
Benefits of Intracept Procedure
Minimally Invasive Procedure
Provides significant reduction in low back pain for patients
Does not require implants in the spine
Outpatient procedure that takes less than 45 minutes
Long Term relief up to 24 months
The Intracept Procedure Explained
Access the pedicle – Under fluoroscopic guidance, the Intracept Introducer Cannula is advanced through the pedicle
Create the channel – The Intracept Curved Cannula is used to create a channel on the trunk of the basivertebral nerve.
Place the RF Probe – The Intracept Radiofrequency Probe is inserted into the curved path and placed at the basivertebral nerve.
Ablate the Basivertebral Nerve – The Relievant Radiofrequency Generator is utilized to ablate the BVN Nerve.
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Glossary
Pain lasting for more than 6 months
