The Intracept Procedure – A Breakthrough in Chronic Low Back Pain Relief

Chronic low back pain is a widespread and often debilitating condition that significantly impacts quality of life. This is the leading cause of global disability for people between the ages of 30 and 64, being responsible for pain in over 5 million patients (1). For individuals suffering from a specific type of pain called vertebrogenic pain, the Intracept® Procedure offers a groundbreaking solution. Developed by Relievant Medsystems, this minimally invasive treatment targets the source of vertebrogenic pain: the basivertebral nerve.

What Is the Intracept Procedure?

The Intracept Procedure is a minimally invasive technique designed to alleviate chronic vertebrogenic low back pain. This type of pain stems from inflammation and nerve signaling associated with damage or degeneration in the vertebral endplates. This lower back pain exhibits pathological indications known as Modic changes visible by MRI imaging.

At the core of the procedure is the basivertebral nerve ablation. The basivertebral nerve innervates the endplates of the vertebrae and transmits pain signals to the brain. Until this groundbreaking procedure, treatments for low back pain have revolved around the vertebral disc and not the endplates. This has allowed the basivertebral nerve pain to go unresolved in most patients experiencing low back pain. 

During the procedure, a radiofrequency probe is used to deactivate the basivertebral nerve through ablation. By halting the transmission of pain signals from the affected vertebrae, the procedure provides long term pain relief with only a single treatment.

The procedure is a same-day outpatient surgery, requiring minimal time for recovery.

Who Is It For?

The Intracept Procedure is specifically designed for individuals experiencing chronic vertebrogenic low back pain. Ideal candidates include:

• Patients that have central low back pain
• Patients with pain that worsens with physical activity, prolonged sitting, bending forward, and/or lifting
• Patients with chronic pain lasting six months or longer.
• Individuals who have not responded to conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or injections.
• Patients that obtain MRI scans indicating Modic changes

It is important to remember that if you exhibit any of these indications that your pain could be singular or it may be suggestive of a combination of pathology. Please discuss these symptoms with your doctor.

Results

Most patients notice relief within 12 weeks after the procedure. The full benefits of the procedure are noticed at 3 months post-operation. 

Patients undergoing this procedure have received significant pain relief and improved functionality. Studies have produced data indicating that 50% of patients undergoing this procedure retained greater than 75% pain relief when examined 5 years after the initial procedure (2). 

DO’s and DO NOT’s

DO NOT participate in rigorous activity for the first two weeks

DO resume normal activity immediately

DO NOT soak in a tub, pool, or spa until a physician tells you it is safe

DO apply an ice pack for 10 minutes per hour as needed

To Conclude

The Intracept Procedure represents a significant advancement in the treatment of chronic low back pain caused by vertebrogenic factors. With its minimally invasive approach, proven effectiveness, and sustained results, it offers hope for millions of individuals whose pain has not been alleviated by conventional therapies. As with any medical treatment, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if this procedure is the right option for you. Contact Active Life today to make an appointment with our professionals so that you can get the relief you need.

Works Cited:

1. Navigant Report of Literature Review for CLBP Incidence Rate, 2019
2. https://www.relievant.com/intracept/