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Disc Decompression

Disc decompression is a highly effective procedure shown to be successful for 90% of patients.[1]

Multiple clinical studies have shown that disc decompression has a high success rate,[1][2] and low complication rate.[1][3] This minimally invasive procedure reduces pressure on the nerve root by removing disc nucleus while preserving disc strength and future treatment options, including surgery.[4][5]

Disc decompression is typically performed on an outpatient basis and requires only local anesthetic and mild sedation, alleviating the possible complications of open surgery and general anesthesia. This invasive procedure completes the continuum of care for patients who want a minimally invasive alternative to surgery.

Benefits of disc decompression include:

  • Significant pain relief[6][7]
  • Reduced used of pain medication[6][7]
  • Return to previous levels of activity[6][7]
  • Quantifiable disc material removal[7]
  • Less scarring
  • Quick recovery: generally 3-5 days
  • Low complication and morbidity rates[8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16]
  • Outpatient procedure requiring only local anesthetic alleviates possible complications of open surgery and general anesthesia

Results compared to surgery:

  • Decreased complication rate: 0.5% vs. 3% with open surgical discectomy[17][18]
  • Lower re-herniation rate: 5% vs. 10-15% compared to open lumbar discectomy 21[19]

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Herniated discHerniated disc putting pressure on nerve root

Under x-ray imaging, a needle is guided into the herniated disc, behind the nerve during disc decompressionUnder x-ray imaging, a needle is guided into the herniated disc, behind the nerve

Disc material causing herniation is removed through the needle during disc decompressionDisc material causing herniation is removed through the needle

Decompressed disc relieves painDecompressed disc relieves pain within a week of the procedure

Before the procedure

Your doctor will confirm that a herniated disc is causing your symptoms by using an imaging study, such as an MRI or CT. These tests help to determine the location of the herniated disc and whether or not disc decompression is the most appropriate treatment for you. If you are a good candidate, your doctor will ask you for the following information:

  • Current medications, including herbal supplements, and their dosages
  • Drug, iodine, or latex allergies
  • Current health conditions

Your physician or the healthcare staff will also request that you:

  • Abstain from aspirin, ASA-containing products (including Alka-Seltzer® or Pepto-Bismol®) and herbal remedies for 5 days before your procedure
  • Abstain from ibuprofen or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) for 3 days before your procedure
  • Abstain from eating or drinking for at least 6 hours before your procedure, except necessary medications with sips of water
  • Wear loose-fitting clothes that are easy to take off and put on
  • Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure is complete

During the procedure

Disc decompression is performed while you are awake but sedated. Your back is numbed by a local anesthetic. Using x-ray guidance, a small needle is inserted through the skin and into the herniated disc. When the probe is in the correct position, the herniated disc tissue is removed, thereby reducing the size of the disc herniation.

After the procedure

After the procedure, you’ll be placed in a recovery room for a short period of time where your vital signs will be monitored. Typically, patients go home within 1 to 3 hours of treatment. For the first three days following the procedure, apply ice to the treatment area for 1-2 hours each day, and limit driving, bending, twisting, and lifting weight over 10 pounds. Recovery time varies with each person, but many patients are able to resume work and daily activities in one week.

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