What is it?
Disctrode is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure used in the treatment of discogenic low back pain. It is only offered after diagnostic discography has confirmed disc pain. A spinal wire catheter is guided into a painful torn or fissured disc segment. Thermal energy is then applied to destroy any active pain receptors and modify collagen tissue in the damaged disc. One or multiple disc levels can be treated.
How many discs are treated?
Based on your symptoms and your discogram, your doctor will determine which disc(s) may be causing your pain.
Will I know right away if the procedure worked?
No, it may take as long as 6 months before the results are achieved, but most patients notice improvement by 3 months.
Does the procedure hurt?
You may feel a sense of pressure, or mild discomfort when the needle is inserted into the disc. The thermal lesioning may be uncomfortable at higher temperature. Your physician will closely monitor your comfort level during the entire procedure and provide medication as needed.
Can I eat on the day of the procedure?
No, you should not eat the day of your procedure. Small amounts of clear liquids are permitted. Arrange to have someone drive you to and from the surgical center.
How long does it take?
Disctrode usually takes about 45-60 minutes, depending on the amount of discs being treated.
Do I need to be put asleep for the procedure?
No. This procedure is done under local anesthesia because you need to be awake enough to tell the doctor what you are feeling. Most patients receive a mild sedative to help them relax and some pain medicine if necessary during the procedure.
What should I expect after the procedure?
We advise patients to take it easy the day of the procedure. You may need to apply ice to the affected area for 20-30 minutes at a time for the next 48-72 hours. Your doctor will provide specific activity restrictions as indicated. Typically a brace is recommended and lengthy driving, lifting, bending/twisting at the waist are restricted in the first few weeks. Formal physical therapy may begin at 3-4 weeks post-procedure.
Are there any potential risks to the procedure?
Generally speaking, this procedure is safe, however with any procedure there are associated risks, side effects, and complications. The most common side effect is temporary discomfort following the procedure. Other risks include damaging local nerves, infection, bleeding, and worsening of symptoms. Fortunately, because the procedure is performed with x-ray guidance in a controlled environment, serious side effects and complications are rare.
Disctrode is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure used in the treatment of discogenic low back pain. It is only offered after diagnostic discography has confirmed disc pain. A spinal wire catheter is guided into a painful torn or fissured disc segment. Thermal energy is then applied to destroy any active pain receptors and modify collagen tissue in the damaged disc. One or multiple disc levels can be treated.
How many discs are treated?
Based on your symptoms and your discogram, your doctor will determine which disc(s) may be causing your pain.
Will I know right away if the procedure worked?
No, it may take as long as 6 months before the results are achieved, but most patients notice improvement by 3 months.
Does the procedure hurt?
You may feel a sense of pressure, or mild discomfort when the needle is inserted into the disc. The thermal lesioning may be uncomfortable at higher temperature. Your physician will closely monitor your comfort level during the entire procedure and provide medication as needed.
Can I eat on the day of the procedure?
No, you should not eat the day of your procedure. Small amounts of clear liquids are permitted. Arrange to have someone drive you to and from the surgical center.
How long does it take?
Disctrode usually takes about 45-60 minutes, depending on the amount of discs being treated.
Do I need to be put asleep for the procedure?
No. This procedure is done under local anesthesia because you need to be awake enough to tell the doctor what you are feeling. Most patients receive a mild sedative to help them relax and some pain medicine if necessary during the procedure.
What should I expect after the procedure?
We advise patients to take it easy the day of the procedure. You may need to apply ice to the affected area for 20-30 minutes at a time for the next 48-72 hours. Your doctor will provide specific activity restrictions as indicated. Typically a brace is recommended and lengthy driving, lifting, bending/twisting at the waist are restricted in the first few weeks. Formal physical therapy may begin at 3-4 weeks post-procedure.
Are there any potential risks to the procedure?
Generally speaking, this procedure is safe, however with any procedure there are associated risks, side effects, and complications. The most common side effect is temporary discomfort following the procedure. Other risks include damaging local nerves, infection, bleeding, and worsening of symptoms. Fortunately, because the procedure is performed with x-ray guidance in a controlled environment, serious side effects and complications are rare.
