
Robert Moghim MD
Anchor Healthcare
Basi-vertebral Nerve (BVN) Ablation (Intracept Procedure)
1746871317
If you have chronic low back pain originating from the bones in your spine, the Intracept Procedure is a minimally invasive treatment designed to provide long-term relief. This procedure specifically targets the basivertebral nerve, located within the vertebrae—the central bones of the spine. Using a specialized probe, the procedure delivers radiofrequency energy to heat and deactivate the basivertebral nerve, disrupting pain signals at their source. Since this nerve plays a key role in transmitting pain from damaged vertebral endplates, deactivating it can significantly reduce chronic back pain without affecting surrounding structures. This procedure is usually done under mild sedation. You should not eat for 8 hours before your procedure, but clear liquids are usually allowed up to 2 hours before. If you take N SEDS or blood thinners, follow your doctor’s instructions on when to stop them. Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure. After the procedure, mild back soreness is expected—use ice packs as needed. There will be only a few small incisions in your back, and no sutures are required, so there’s no need for removal. Avoid high-impact activities for 2-3 weeks to allow for proper healing. Supporting your recovery with an anti-inflammatory diet, staying hydrated, and getting quality sleep will help optimize your results. A follow-up visit is typically scheduled in 4-6 weeks to evaluate your progress. By following these guidelines, you’re taking the right steps toward a successful recovery. If you have any concerns, contact the medical team.
FAQs
Are there activity restrictions following the Intracept Procedure?
Yes, it is advised to avoid high-impact activities for 2-3 weeks to ensure proper healing. Supporting your recovery with an anti-inflammatory diet, adequate hydration, and quality sleep will enhance your results.
What can I expect after undergoing the Intracept Procedure?
Post-procedure, you may experience mild back soreness, which can be alleviated with ice packs. The procedure involves only a few small incisions with no need for suture removal. A follow-up visit is usually scheduled in 4-6 weeks to assess progress.
What is the Intracept Procedure, and how does it work for chronic low back pain?
The Intracept Procedure is a minimally invasive treatment that targets chronic low back pain originating from the spine's bones. It specifically deactivates the basivertebral nerve using radiofrequency energy, effectively disrupting pain signals from damaged vertebral endplates, and providing long-term pain relief.
What steps should I take to prepare for the Intracept Procedure?
Preparation includes fasting for 8 hours before the procedure, with clear liquids allowed up to 2 hours prior. If you're on NSAIDs or blood thinners, follow your doctor’s advice on when to discontinue them. You should arrange for someone to drive you home afterwards.
Will the Intracept Procedure affect other parts of my spine or body?
No, the procedure is designed to specifically target the basivertebral nerve without affecting surrounding structures, ensuring that other parts of your spine or body remain unaffected.