The Intracept® Procedure: A Solution for Chronic Lower Back Pain
Understanding Vertebrogenic Pain
Chronic lower back pain can be complex and challenging to treat. Vertebrogenic pain is a specific type of back pain caused by damage to the vertebral endplates – the tissue covering the top and bottom of each vertebral body that separates it from the disc.
How Pain Develops
Daily activities and the natural aging process can create stress on the vertebral endplates, leading to:
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- Inflammation
- Structural damage
- Increased nerve sensitivity
The basivertebral nerve (BVN) plays a crucial role in this process. Located within the vertebrae, this nerve carries pain signals from inflamed endplates directly to the brain, creating a persistent pain cycle.
The Intracept® Procedure: An Innovative Treatment
Procedure Overview
The Intracept® Procedure is a groundbreaking, minimally invasive treatment designed to address the root cause of vertebrogenic pain:
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- Minimally Invasive: No implants required
- Preserves Spinal Structure: Maintains the integrity of your spine
- Outpatient Procedure: Completed in approximately one hour
- FDA-Cleared: Proven safe and effective through multiple clinical studies
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How It Works
The procedure uses a specialized radiofrequency probe to precisely heat the basivertebral nerve, interrupting the pain signal transmission from damaged endplates to the brain.
Clinical Evidence
Extensive research demonstrates remarkable outcomes:
Candidate Criteria
Patients may be ideal candidates for the Intracept® Procedure if they:
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- Have experienced chronic low back pain for at least six months
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- Have tried conservative treatments without sufficient relief
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- Show MRI evidence of Modic changes, indicating endplate inflammation
What to Expect
Procedure Details
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- Same-day outpatient treatment
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- Performed under anesthesia
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- Approximately one-hour duration
Recovery and Results
Most patients experience meaningful pain relief and improved function within three months of the procedure.
Important Considerations
While the Intracept® Procedure offers hope for many chronic low back pain sufferers, it’s crucial to have a comprehensive evaluation. Our team will carefully assess your individual medical history, imaging, and specific pain characteristics to determine the most appropriate treatment approach.
Next Steps
For Patients
If you’re struggling with persistent lower back pain, we invite you to schedule a comprehensive consultation to explore whether the Intracept® Procedure might be right for you.
For Referring Physicians
We welcome collaborative care and are happy to provide detailed assessments and treatment recommendations for your patients with chronic lower back pain.
Contact Us
Ready to learn more about breaking free from chronic lower back pain? Contact our office to schedule a consultation and discover your treatment options.
Note: As with any medical procedure, the Intracept® Procedure carries potential risks. A thorough discussion with your healthcare provider is essential to determine the most suitable treatment for your condition.