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cure back pain

Nucleoplasty

Nucleoplasty is a newly developed procedure designed to decompress herniated discs. It is sometimes referred to by the name percutaneous discectomy. This procedure is minimally invasive, using a super thin catheter to gain access to the bulging disc. A tiny radio transmitter is inserted into the disc nucleus through the catheter. This transmitter emits radio waves that break up the material in the nucleus, decreasing the amount of nucleus material putting pressure on the bulging disc wall.

Nucleoplasty


Usually, this procedure will cause the disc to shrink back to its original size and shape, eliminating pressure on the spinal nerve root.

The nucleoplasty procedure is performed under local anesthetic and only takes about 30 minutes to complete. The patient can go home immediately. Most patients return to work in about a week and are instructed to limit vigorous physical activity for a few weeks.

Advantages of Nucleoplasty

The operation is extremely precise and does not remove more tissue than is necessary to shrink the disc. If too much nucleus tissue is removed, the disc will shrink more than necessary. In this case the disc will suffer from degenerative disc disease, instead of being herniated. This procedure offers good results with little risk taken by the patient. A more involved surgery can always be performed if results are poor. The procedure is relatively comfortable and should leave no scar tissue or physical limitations.

Warnings for Percutaneous Discectomy

This procedure is designed specifically for bulging discs in which the disc wall is intact. This procedure can’t be used for extruded or ruptured discs. The procedure demonstrates the best results for treating herniated lumbar discs, which are causing sciatica pain in the legs. There is a small risk of infection since it is an invasive surgical procedure.

Recommendation for Nucleoplasty

If you have not had good results with conservative treatments for chronic back pain, then this procedure might be a good option. Of course, you must have an enclosed herniated disc causing your pain. If your condition meets the requirements for this operation and you have considered surgery, I would recommend this procedure as a strong contender. It would be wise to try this procedure before any other type of surgery to correct the bulging disc. You have little to lose by trying and you might get complete relief.
Nucleoplasty to Back Pain Home 6/18/06 Revised 7/11/08

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