Intracept: Basivertebral Nerve Ablation (BVN)

The Intracept procedure  is a minimally invasive procedure designed for individuals experiencing Basivertebral Nerve (BVN) pain, a particular type of chronic low back pain. The treatment uses radiofrequency energy to target and heat a specific area of the basivertebral nerve. This process disrupts the pain signals that travel from the spine to the brain, providing relief from vertebrogenic pain.

• Minimally invasive: The Intracept procedure is a minimally invasive alternative to open back surgery. It requires one incision and very few sutures.
• Effective for vertebrogenic pain: Because the Intracept procedure treats pain at its source (your basivertebral nerve), it can be quite effective for people with this specific type of chronic back pain.
• Long-lasting results: Studies show that most people who undergo the Intracept procedure have significant reduction in pain that lasts five years or longer.
• Shorter recovery time: Because the Intracept procedure is less invasive than traditional back surgery, most people fully recover in one to two weeks.

Your physician will let you know about any restrictions following your procedure. In general, it’s a good idea to rest as much as possible and avoid exercise for about 48 hours.

Typical Intracept procedure side effects include slight soreness around your incision for a few days. Some people may develop bruising and minor swelling, as well. You can usually manage these side effects with over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers . Your physician will also give you a detailed list of post-treatment instructions.