What is a nucleoplasty?
A nucleoplasty is a minimally invasive
outpatient procedure in which disc material is removed by using Coblation, a
radiofrequency based technology. It is recommended as a treatment for
buttock or leg pain that is related to a problem in the spine.
Who is a candidate for a
nucleoplasty?
Patients who have a contained herniated disc
are candidates for this procedure.
What can I expect during
the nucleoplasty procedure?
The procedure is usually performed on an
outpatient basis. An IV will be started. Local anesthesia and
mild sedation may reduce discomfort during the procedure. The
procedure is done under x-ray guidance. A needle is advanced into the
disc. A device is then introduced through the needle, which creates a
series of channels and then thermally treats the tissue. The device is
then slowly withdrawn while sealing the new channel. A small dressing
is placed over the incision.
How long
does the procedure take?
The procedure usually takes
about one hour.
What
is the preparation?
Notify the doctor if you
are taking any aspirin, Advil or other blood thinners, if you have any
allergies to any medications or if you have an infection in any part of your
body. Have someone drive you home from the procedure. You may also be
instructed not to eat anything after midnight the night of your procedure.
What kind of post op care
can I expect?
You may be given pain
medication for several days post injection. During the healing process
it is important that you treat your back with care. You will also need
to wear a brace post Nucleoplasty procedure. You will be given activity and
physical rehabilitation guidelines.
How is a nucleoplasty
different than an IDET?
The nucleoplasty procedure
provides a shorter recovery time of 1-2 weeks, while the IDET recovery
usually takes about 6-8 weeks. The nucleoplasty procedure is easier to
tolerate and is less involved than the IDET. It is also easier to get
approved by insurance companies; however the IDET has been performed for
longer than the nucleoplasty procedure. On the down side of the
procedure, the data is not as well established for the nucleoplasty and the
mechanism of action is not as widely understood.
