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Intracept
Intracept is a minimally invasive, out-patient procedure designed to aleviate vertebrogenic pain.
Using real-time X-ray guidance (fluoroscopy) a radiofrequency electrode is placed into the vertebral body at the basivertebral nerve. This electrode is then used to burn the nerve that is causing vertebrogenic pain. The relief can last more than 2-5 years, and post procedural pain is minimal.
Vertebrogenic pain is caused by damage to the endplates of the vertebrae. Disc degeneration, and the wear and tear that occurs with everyday living, produces stresses on the endplates that damage them, leading to inflammation and vertebrogenic pain.
To confirm that you suffer from vertebrogenic pain, our providers use MRI to look for specific changes that occur with endplate inflammation, which are called modic changes.
You may benefit from Intracept if you experience this distinct type of chronic low back pain. Patients who find relief from the Intracept Procedure often describe pain in the middle of their low back that is made worse by physical activity, prolonged sitting, and bending forward, or with bending and lifting.
Proven Relief of Vertebrogenic Pain*
NEARLY 80%
of patients in a recent long-term study would have the Intracept Procedure again for the same condition.
LESS THAN 0.3%
report serious Intracept Procedure-related complications.
AFTER 5 YEARS, 65% OF
patients reported they had resumed the level of activity they enjoyed prior to low back pain in a recent long-term study.
*Based on over 30 years of research.
Intercept Ppostop Instructions:
Post Anesthesia:
If you received anesthesia/sedation for the remainder of the day you so you should NOT make critical decisions or sign any legal documents. You should NOT consume alcohol. You should NOT drive or operate heavy machinery.
Medications:
You may be prescribed a post-operative medications, if so take as instructed. If you are on a blood thinner speak with your doctor about when to resume.
Incision Care:
If there is a dressing, you may remove it 24 hours after surgery BEFORE your shower. If surgical glue is used expect it will slowly peel off within 14 days. Please call us with any changes or concerns such as: redness, swelling or drainage at incision site, or temperature greater than 101°. (Clear liquid drainage in the first 24 hours is normal) .
Bathing:
You may shower after you remove your dressing on the morning after surgery; avoid scrubbing the incision site for 72 hours. No baths or swimming until approved by the physician or physician assistant at your follow up appointment.
Restrictions:
For 2 weeks after surgery:
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No Strenuous activity
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No Lifting greater than 10 lbs
Exercise:
Increase your light activity each day, such as walking, as tolerated.
Diet:
Eat a healthy diet to promote healing.
Smoking:
No smoking. Smoking can affect the rate of bone and skin healing needed to heal from this surgery.
Driving:
You may drive the day after the procedure if you feel okay to do so. Do not drive if you are taking pain medications
Follow-Up:
You may have soreness in your back for up to 7 days. You will have a post-operative appointment approximately 14 days after surgery. If you have not already made your follow-up appointment, call your surgeons office to make one.
Radiology:
This procedure leaves permanent marks on the bones of your spine, an expected and normal outcome. However, if you have any x-rays in the future be sure to notify the ordering physician as it may be misinterpreted as something different
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our office triage line at 734-373-7246. If it is AFTER HOURS call the answering service at 734-572-7418.