What is it about?

Percutaneous disc decompression was developed to help patients with pain from a contained disc herniation. It is a minimally invasive procedure performed on an outpatient basis. The physician removes part of nucleous pulposus (inner part of disc) by a process called coblation technique.

 

Indications include back pain or combined back and leg pain, that have not improved after approximately three months of conservative therapy such as rest, pain medication, physical therapy etc.

Before your scheduled visit/procedure

How is it performed?

You will be lighlty sedated by IV and vitals are constantly monitored. Under fluoroscopic guidance a thin needle is advanced into the disc. Needle position is confirmed under varius views. Then disc is decompressed by the decompressor, wherein part of nucleou pulposes is removed. The entire procedure takes about 45-60 minutes. Complications could include bleeding and occassionally infection. 

After Care

Most patients return to work within 1-2 weeks. Plan to rest 1-3 days after procedure. Do not drive the first 1-2 days  following the procedure. Limit sitting or walking to 10-20 minutes a time. Limit lifting to 5-10 lbs for the first 2 weeks. Formal physical therapy may begin in 6 to 8 weeks.