The Intracept Procedure is a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure for patients with vertebrogenic pain. The procedure targets a specific nerve within the vertebra called the basivertebral nerve and has been shown to improve function and relieve pain long-term.
Intracept Procedure Goals: The Intracept Procedure is a minimally invasive treatment that aims to reduce back pain. It works by targeting nerve endings in the vertebral body to reduce pain signals. The goal of the procedure is to provide long-term pain relief and improved quality of life for patients with lumbar discogenic pain.
Diagnostic goals: The diagnostic goals of an Intracept Procedure are to diagnose and treat the underlying cause of chronic lower back and/or leg pain. To identify the source of the pain, such as a connective tissue abnormality or a nerve entrapment, and to decompress the affected nerve root or connective tissue.
Pain relief goals: Improve mobility and range of motion, decrease the need for long-term medication or surgery, and improve quality of life.
The Intracept Procedure is an innovative and minimally invasive approach to treating chronic low back pain. This procedure utilizes a proprietary radiofrequency system to target and ablate the dorsal root ganglion, a nerve bundle located in the lower back which is believed to play a role in chronic pain. The procedure is performed in an outpatient setting, requires only local anesthesia, and has proven to be relatively safe and effective in reducing and even eliminating chronic low back pain. The Intracept Procedure has been shown to provide long-term pain relief and improved quality of life in those suffering from chronic low back pain. As such, it can serve as a viable alternative to more invasive and costly treatments, such as surgery.
If the Intracept Procedure does not work, the patient may need to seek alternative treatments for their chronic low back pain. Even if the procedure does not provide the desired relief, other treatments may be able to be explored to help manage the symptoms. Ultimately, we will need to work together to find the best course of action.
The procedure has a relatively short recovery time, with most patients able to return to full activity within a few days. While some patients may experience some soreness or discomfort in the area of the procedure, this typically resolves within a few days. Most patients are able to return to work, sports, or other activities within one to two weeks. Additionally, patients can usually expect to see improvement in their pain levels within one to two weeks post–procedure.