Chronic Low Back Pain (CLBP) is a debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and it can severely impact their quality of life. Fortunately, there are several treatments available to alleviate this condition, and the Intracept procedure is one of them. Recently, Dr. David Buechner and his team at Paragon Medical Group performed the first Intracept procedure in Memphis, TN, providing patients with a new option for managing CLBP.
So what is the Intracept procedure? It is a minimally invasive treatment that targets the basivertebral nerve, a nerve responsible for transmitting pain signals from the vertebral endplates to the brain. By disrupting the signal transmission, the Intracept procedure reduces pain and improves function for patients suffering from CLBP.
Here are the steps involved in the Intracept procedure:
Step 1: Patient Preparation
Before the procedure, the patient is positioned on the operating table, and the skin over the back is cleaned and sterilized. Anesthesia is administered to ensure that the patient is comfortable throughout the procedure.
Step 2: Needle Placement
Using imaging guidance, a needle is inserted into the vertebral body to access the basivertebral nerve. The needle is precisely guided using fluoroscopy or CT guidance, and the procedure is carried out with the utmost precision.
Step 3: Intracept Device Placement
Once the needle is in the correct position, a specialized Intracept device is inserted through the needle and into the vertebral body. The device delivers thermal energy to the basivertebral nerve, which disrupts its ability to transmit pain signals.
Step 4: Closing the Incision
After the procedure is complete, the needle and Intracept device are removed, and the incision is closed. Patients are typically able to go home the same day and can resume normal activities within a few days.
The Intracept procedure is a safe and effective treatment option for patients suffering from CLBP. By targeting the source of pain, the basivertebral nerve, this minimally invasive procedure provides long-lasting pain relief and improved function for patients.
In conclusion, the Intracept procedure is an exciting development in the field of pain management, and we congratulate Dr. David Buechner and his team at Paragon Medical Group for performing the first procedure in Memphis, TN. This innovative treatment option provides hope for those suffering from CLBP and opens up new possibilities for the management of chronic pain.
