Percutaneous Discectomy
Introduction
Percutaneous Discectomy is a minimally invasive procedure designed to alleviate pain caused by herniated discs. This procedure involves the removal of a portion of the herniated disc to relieve pressure on the surrounding nerves, providing prompt pain relief.
Clinical Indications
Percutaneous Discectomy is typically indicated for patients who have not responded to conservative treatments such as medications, physical therapy, and nerve blocks. It is particularly suitable for patients with small disc bulges that are causing significant pain and nerve irritation
Chronic Pain Conditions Treated
This procedure is commonly used to treat chronic pain conditions such as:
- Sciatica: Pain radiating from the lower back down to the legs.
- Lumbar Radiculopathy: Pain, numbness, or weakness in the lower back and legs due to nerve compression.
- Cervical Radiculopathy: Similar symptoms occurring in the neck and arms
Techniques and Goals
The procedure involves using a small needle to access the herniated disc under fluoroscopic guidance (live X-ray). A probe with a rotating tip is then inserted through the needle to remove small portions of the disc nucleus, creating space and relieving pressure on the nerve. The goal is to reduce pain and improve the patient's quality of life without the need for extensive surgery
Therapeutic value & Effects
Therapeutic Value
Percutaneous Discectomy offers significant therapeutic value by providing quick pain relief and allowing patients to return to their daily activities sooner than with traditional open surgery. It is a less invasive option with a shorter recovery time and minimal tissue trauma.
Duration of Effects
The effects of the procedure can last for several months to years, depending on the individual patient's condition and response to the treatment. Some patients may experience long-term relief, while others may require additional treatments or interventions.
What to Expect
When a patient comes to the clinic for a Percutaneous Discectomy, they can expect:
- A thorough evaluation and discussion of their medical history and symptoms.
- Detailed explanation of the procedure and its benefits and risks.
- Preparation for the procedure, including local anesthesia and positioning on the operating table.
- The procedure itself, which typically takes less than an hour.
Procedure
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, avoiding the risks associated with general anesthesia. Using fluoroscopic guidance, the surgeon inserts a needle into the herniated disc and uses a rotating probe to remove the disc material. The entire process is minimally invasive and usually completed within an hour
Possible Side Effects and Complications
As with any medical procedure, there are potential side effects and complications, including:
- Infection at the site of the needle insertion.
- Bleeding or hematoma formation.
- Nerve damage or persistent pain.
- Recurrence of disc herniation.
We are here to help
At the Institute of Interventional Pain Management, we are dedicated to helping patients with chronic pain by offering Percutaneous Discectomy. Our goal is to provide effective pain relief and improve the quality of life for our patients. If you are suffering from chronic pain due to a herniated disc, we are here to help.