Advanced Pain Therapies

• Herniated Disc (Slipped Disc): Individuals with herniated discs, where the disc material protrudes and compresses the nerve, can benefit from these procedures. By precisely removing the problematic disc material by disc decompression (nucleoplasty), the pressure on the nerve will be relieved, leading to pain reduction and improved functionality.
• Sciatica: Sciatica, often due to a pinched sciatic nerve from lumbar spine disorders, manifests as pain or numbness along the nerve path. Treatment focuses on easing this nerve compression, aiming to reduce pain and improve functionality.
• Discogenic Pain: Discogenic pain, stemming from neck or low back issues related to intervertebral discs, can be addressed through biacuplasty or annuloplasty.

Potential advantages of disc decompression or ablation include:

• Minimally Invasive Approach: Smaller incisions typically lead to potentially faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgery.
• Pain Relief: These methods aim to alleviate pain of the spine by addressing its root causes, such as reducing nerve compression or targeting pain-signalling pathways, though results can vary.
• Quicker Recovery: The less invasive nature of these treatments often allows for a quicker return to daily activities, but recovery time can differ from patient to patient.
• Reduced Risk of Complications: Generally, these techniques have a lower risk of complications and less scarring than more invasive surgeries, but like all medical procedures, they carry some risk.
• Improved Functionality and Mobility: While many patients experience improved mobility and functionality, the extent of improvement depends on individual circumstances.
• Potential for Reduced Long-Term Medication Use: Effective management of spinal issues may decrease the need for ongoing pain medication, but this varies based on the specific treatment and patient response.

Disc decompression such as nucleoplasty, and disc ablation such as biacuplasty or annuloplasty, involve the following steps:

• Diagnosis and Evaluation: A comprehensive assessment to determine the suitability of the procedure based on one’s condition and medical history.
• Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia or sedation is administered to ensure comfort.
• Disc Material Removal: Specialised needles are used to remove problematic disc material, reducing pressure on the affected nerve.
• Radiofrequency Ablation: If the disc is a source of pain, radiofrequency ablation is performed to destroy pain-signalling nerves.
• Recovery and Follow-Up: Monitored in a recovery area with specific post-procedure instructions and scheduled follow-up appointments.

• Response to Non-Surgical Treatments: An assessment of how your condition has reacted to less invasive approaches, such as medications, steroid injections, or physical therapy.
• Symptom Severity: The extent of persistent symptoms like pain, numbness, or tingling, especially if these have not improved with conservative treatments.
• Diagnostic Confirmation: The use of MRI or CT scans to identify specific conditions like herniated discs, sciatica, or discogenic pain that might benefit from these procedures.
• Medical History Review: An examination of your overall health history, focusing on any potential risks or contraindications, like active infections or bleeding disorders.
• Specialist Consultation: Engaging with a pain medicine specialist or a spine surgeon to discuss the potential benefits and risks, tailored to your specific case.

After undergoing a disc decompression or ablation treatment, patients typically encounter the following:

• Mild Discomfort: It’s common to feel some soreness at the puncture site.
• Activity Restrictions: Limiting strenuous physical activities for a period, usually a few weeks, is often recommended.
• Pain Assessment and Medication Adjustment: Pain relief and recovery progress are regularly assessed, potentially leading to changes in medication.
• Follow-Up Appointments: These are crucial for monitoring recovery and adjusting treatment plans.
• Physiotherapy: Engaging in specialised exercises may be advised to enhance mobility and strength in affected areas.