Intervertebral disc annuloplasty

Intervertebral disc annuloplasty is a medical procedure that involves the treatment of disc herniation or disc bulge in the spine. This procedure is often used when conservative treatments have failed to provide relief from symptoms.

Procedure

The procedure involves the use of heat to treat the affected disc. A catheter is inserted into the disc through a small incision in the skin. The catheter is then heated to a specific temperature to cause the collagen in the disc to contract. This contraction can help to reduce the size of the disc bulge or herniation, relieving pressure on the surrounding nerves and reducing pain.

Indications

Intervertebral disc annuloplasty is typically indicated for patients with disc herniation or disc bulge that has not responded to conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, or epidural steroid injections. It may also be used in patients with discogenic pain that is believed to be caused by a damaged or degenerated disc.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, intervertebral disc annuloplasty carries some risks. These may include infection, bleeding, nerve damage, and a possible increase in pain. There is also a risk that the procedure will not provide the desired relief from symptoms.

Recovery

Recovery from intervertebral disc annuloplasty is typically quicker than that from more invasive spine surgeries. Patients are usually able to return to their normal activities within a few weeks. Physical therapy may be recommended to help strengthen the back and prevent future disc problems.

See Also

• Spinal disc herniation
• Spinal fusion
• Discectomy