Basivertebral nerve ablation, also known as the Intracept procedure, is a minimally invasive spinal procedure for patients with certain types of low back pain. The procedure works by placing a tool called a cannula into the painful vertebra and applying a radiofrequency heat signal to the nerve within the vertebral body. This damages the nerve and prevents the patient from feeling pain in that region.
Basivertebral Nerve (BVN) Ablation (Intracept) is meant for patients who have pain in their lower back when they bend forward (flexion of the spine). Patients who undergo this procedure have typically failed other conservative measures including medications, physical therapy, and other injections.
This procedure is done on an outpatient basis in a surgery center. The procedure is done under moderate sedation with the use of fluoroscopy (x-ray) guidance. The patient will lay on their stomach and once the anesthetic is given, the physician will make a small incision and use a series of tools to gain access to the vertebral body. Once the radiofrequency signal is applied, the tools are removed and the incision is closed. Patients are discharged home after being monitored for a short amount of time.
Patients may experience soreness for several weeks following this procedure. Like any interventional procedure, there is a small risk of other complications including bleeding, infection, or nerve damage. However, this procedure is considered to be very safe and effective at minimizing this type of low back pain.
Give us a call to schedule your appointment at one of our Austin, Kyle, San Marcos or Dripping Springs locations. You can also fill out our form, and we’ll reach out to finalize your appointment.
In this appointment, we’ll go over your medical history, medications, x-rays, and past treatments so we can plan the best approach for your Basivertebral nerve (BVN) ablation.
Basivertebral nerve (BVN) ablation generally takes under 2 hours. The skin in the lower back is cleaned, and numbed, and the ablation procedure is performed.
Most patients can walk around immediately after the procedure. Typically patients resume full activity the next day. If you feel at all sore, simply use ice or a mild analgesic.
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The Basivertebral Nerve (BVN) Ablation procedure will last about 60-90 minutes, after which patients are discharged after a short monitoring period.
As stated above, the basivertebral Nerve (BVN) Ablation procedure does come with potential risk but is overall considered to be a less invasive option than open spine surgery.
The current data suggests that the effects of Basivertebral Nerve (BVN) Ablation are long-lasting (more than 5 years) and may in fact be permanent.
Curious about interventive pain treatments in Austin, TX? Join our doctors for an in-person lunch and learn session to find out more about these treatments and ask any questions you may have. This event will be 12–1pm, sign up below to receive more details and RSVP.
If you suffer from chronic low back pain, particularly related to vertebral endplate changes, schedule an appointment with Greater Austin Pain Center to learn more about our Basivertebral Nerve (BVN) Ablation Intracept procedure. With four convenient locations in Austin, Kyle, Dripping Springs, and San Marcos, our pain management specialists are ready to help you find effective relief for your chronic pain.
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