Intradiscal Regenerative Medicine
Live Life Pain Free
Percutaneous discectomy is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat herniated disks. The goal of the procedure is to relieve pain by removing pressure on the nerve root. During percutaneous discectomy, a small incision is made in the back, and a thin tube called a cannula is inserted into the space between the vertebrae. Using fluoroscopic guidance, the surgeon then inserts a needle-like device through the cannula and into the herniated disk. The disk is then fragmentized with heat or laser energy and removed through the cannula. Percutaneous discectomy is generally safe and effective, and most people experience significant relief from their symptoms after the procedure. Recovery times vary depending on the individual, but most people can return to their normal activities within a few weeks. However, it is important to note that percutaneous discectomy is not a cure for herniated disks, and there is a risk of recurrence. If you are experiencing pain from a herniated disk, talk to your doctor to see if percutaneous discectomy might be right for you.
Identify and Treat your back pain with disc decompression
A herniated disc can negatively affect your ability to perform everyday activities. If your discomfort isn't improving with conservative treatments—bed rest, pain medication, stretching or cold and/or heat therapy—disc decompression may be your best option. It has a high success rate, low complication rate and is
What are some symptoms and causes that may require disc decompression?
Leg Pain Symptoms
Usually occurs in only one leg
May starts suddenly or gradually
May be constant or may come and go
May get worse when sneezing, coughing or straining during bowel movements
May be aggravated by sitting, prolonged standing and bending/ twisting
Nerve-Related Symptoms
- Tingling ("pins-and-needles" sensation) or numbness in one leg
- Weakness in one or both legs
- Pain in the front of the thigh
What are the benefits of Percutaneous Discectomy?
Significant pain relief
Reduced use of pain medication
Return to previous levels of activity
Less scarring
Quick recovery
Low complication and morbidity rates
What are the results compared to surgery?
Decreased complication rate compared to open surgical discectomy
Lower re-herniation rate compared to open lumbar discectomy
The procedure and what you can expect
PRE-PROCEDUREYour doctor uses an imaging study (like an MRI or CT) to confirm a diagnosis. These tests help determine the
location of the herniated disc and whether disc decompression is the most appropriate treatment.
If you are a good candidate, your doctor will ask you for the following
information:
-Current medications, including herbal supplemnts and their dosages - Known drug, iodine, x-ray dye or latex allergies -Current health conditions A doctor may advise you to: -Abstain from aspirin, ASA- containing product (including Alka-Seltzer or Pepto-Bismol) and herbal remedies for five days
before your procedure -Abstain from ibuprofen or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for three days before your procedure - Abstain from eating or drinking for at least six hours before your procedure, except necessary medications with sips of
water - Wear loose-fitting clothes that are easy to take off/put on - Arrange for someone to drive you home
