Basivertebral Nerve Ablation (Intracept) in Castle Rock
What is Basivertebral Nerve Ablation (Intracept Procedure)?
Basivertebral nerve ablation, commonly referred to as the Intracept Procedure, is a minimally invasive treatment designed to relieve chronic lower back pain caused by vertebrogenic pain syndrome. This pain originates from the vertebral endplates—the interface between the spinal bones and the intervertebral discs. This pain is usually worse with sitting, transitions from sitting to standing, and physical activity. It is often better when standing.
The procedure targets the basivertebral nerve, which transmits pain signals from damaged endplates. By ablating (destroying) this nerve, the procedure effectively reduces or eliminates pain.
How does Basivertebral Nerve Ablation (Intracept Procedure) Work?
Using a small, specialized probe, radiofrequency (RF) energy is delivered to the basivertebral nerve, disrupting its ability to send pain signals to the brain. Since the nerve does not regenerate, the pain relief can be long-lasting.
Who is a Candidate for Basivertebral Nerve Ablation (Intracept Procedure)?
The Intracept Procedure is specifically designed for patients with chronic lower back pain that has persisted for at least six months and has not responded to conservative treatments, such as physical therapy, medications, or injections.
Candidates for the Intracept Procedure:
Diagnosed with vertebrogenic pain syndrome
MRI-confirmed Modic Type 1 or 2 changes (indicative of endplate inflammation or degeneration)
Persistent pain despite non-surgical treatments
No spinal instability or significant nerve compression
How Should I Prepare for Basivertebral Nerve Ablation (Intracept Procedure)?
Before your procedure, inform Dr. Carrera’s team about any medications you are taking, especially blood thinners and anti-inflammatory drugs, as you may need to stop them temporarily.
You will receive general anesthesia for the procedure, so you will need to avoid eating or drinking for several hours beforehand.
Arrange for someone to drive you home, as you may feel drowsy afterward.
What Happens During Basivertebral Nerve Ablation (Intracept Procedure)?
Anesthesia Administration: You will be placed under general anesthesia before positioning.
Patient Positioning: Once anesthetized, you will be carefully placed face down on a treatment table.
Local Anesthesia: The skin over the treatment area will be numbed for additional comfort.
Guided Needle Placement: Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, Dr. Carrera inserts a small probe into the vertebra near the basivertebral nerve.
Nerve Ablation: Radiofrequency energy is applied, deactivating the nerve and blocking pain signals.
Completion: The procedure typically takes 60-90 minutes, and patients are monitored before being discharged home.
Is Basivertebral Nerve Ablation (Intracept Procedure) Painful?
General anesthesia ensures you do not feel pain during the treatment. Afterward, mild soreness at the treatment site is common but usually resolves within a few days.
What Should I Expect After Basivertebral Nerve Ablation (Intracept Procedure)?
Mild soreness at the treatment site is common and usually resolves in a few days.
Resume light activities within 24-48 hours, following Dr. Carrera’s recommendations.
Strenuous activities should be avoided for about two weeks.
When Will I Experience Pain Relief after Basivertebral Nerve Ablation (Intracept Procedure)?
Pain relief from the Intracept Procedure occurs gradually. Most patients begin to notice improvement within 6-12 weeks, with continued pain reduction over several months. Clinical studies have shown that 70-80% of patients report significant pain relief by the 3-month mark, with many experiencing sustained benefits for five years or more.
Patients may experience different rates of relief depending on the severity of their condition and their body's healing response. Some individuals notice early improvement within a few weeks, while others may take longer to reach full relief.
How Long does Basivertebral Nerve Ablation (Intracept Procedure) help?
Because the basivertebral nerve does not regenerate, pain relief is often long-lasting. Clinical studies have shown sustained pain reduction even five years after treatment.
What are the Risks of Basivertebral Nerve Ablation (Intracept Procedure)?
While the procedure is generally safe, potential risks include:
Temporary soreness at the procedure site
Mild swelling or bruising
Infection (rare)
Transient numbness or irritation of nearby nerves
Bleeding or hematoma formation at the insertion site (very rare)
Worsening pain or lack of pain relief in some cases
Injury to surrounding structures, such as nerves, though this is extremely uncommon
Dr. Carrera utilizes advanced imaging guidance and precision techniques to minimize risks and ensure optimal outcomes. While complications are rare, it is important to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider before undergoing the procedure.
Is Basivertebral Nerve Ablation (Intracept Procedure) Covered by Insurance?
Medicare and many commercial insurance providers cover the Intracept Procedure for chronic vertebrogenic back pain.
Eligibility depends on medical necessity, including MRI-confirmed Modic changes and failure of conservative treatments.
Who Performs Basivertebral Nerve Ablation (Intracept Procedure)?
This procedure should be performed by a specialist trained in spinal interventions. Dr. Carrera is double-board certified in interventional pain medicine and physical medicine & rehabilitation (PM&R), making him uniquely qualified to perform the Intracept Procedure safely and effectively.
Should I get a Basivertebral Nerve Ablation (Intracept Procedure)?
If you have persistent lower back pain that has not responded to conservative treatment, you may be a candidate for the Intracept Procedure.
Patients in Castle Rock, Lone Tree, Highlands Ranch, Parker, Denver, and surrounding areas can schedule a consultation with Dr. Carrera and his team to learn more by calling 720-455-3775.