Intracept®: Minimally invasive treatment supports long-lasting relief from lower back pain

A man visits a doctor for Intracept treatment.

At The Hemlock Pain Center, our board-certified anesthesiologists and pain management specialists, Drs Stephen N. Tafor and Sandeep Datta, put chronic, deep, burning, and aching vertebrogenic pain behind you with a minimally invasive, energy-based treatment called Intracept®.

What is vertebrogenic pain?

Patients at our Macon, Warner Robins, Dublin, and Milledgeville, Georgia offices may have damage to the endplates of the spinal bones (the vertebrae). These endplates function as protective barriers to cushion the hard vertebrae and the softer, rubbery spinal discs. Endplates also nourish the discs by carrying blood and other vital substances to them. When they are damaged, pain may be triggered in the basivertebral nerves that run from the bone of each vertebra to the endplates. This pain is often worse when sitting for a long time, engaging in physical activities, and bending forward. You may also develop referred pain, which manifests in other parts of the body instead of the site of origin.

How does Intracept® work for vertebrogenic pain?

This procedure involves applying radiofrequency (RF) energy to heat a narrow part of the basivertebral nerve. Disrupting the pain signals that travel from the spine to the brain provides symptom relief.

Is Intracept® right for me?

Our specialists may recommend Intracept® for low back pain due to Modic Type 1 and Modic Type 2 vertebral endplate changes. Modic changes refer to specific abnormalities associated with the spine’s vertebral bone marrow. These changes fall into three categories and are indicative of overall spine health. Type 1 changes may result from active inflammation, infection, and conditions like herniated discs or spinal infections. The affected area may feel tender, painful, and stiff. Type 2 changes are associated with chronic degenerative conditions and wear and tear to the spine. The pain may be less severe than with Type 2 changes. Intracept® is generally also recommended for those patients who have tried options like injections and PT, but whose symptoms persist. This is also a less invasive alternative to open surgery to restore spinal health.

A woman is experiencing back pain.
A happy couple after getting intracept treatments.

What can I expect from Intracept® treatment?

Intracept® is performed under general anesthesia for your comfort. The procedure can be completed with a small opening made in your back. Using special imaging, we insert a thin tube through the incision and into the vertebra. Then, the basivertebral nerve is accessed, and RF-generated heat is applied. This heat triggers a process whereby the nerve is damaged. The final step in treatment is closing the incision with sutures. Intracept® can be completed in 60 to 90 minutes. It is essential to follow all instructions before and after the procedure. With proper aftercare, full recovery can be achieved in seven to fourteen days. Intracept® is associated with a significant reduction in pain that lasts at least five years.

Of course, every patient’s needs and experiences vary. To take the first step to stopping pain and enjoying life to the fullest, request a personalized consultation at one of our four The Hemlock Pain Center locations: Macon, GA (478) 475-2385, Warner Robins (478) 997-6444, Dublin (478) 800-3745, or Milledgeville (478) 280-4670.