Nucleotome Kit Components

A Nucleotome Probe Set may contain the following components and accessories required for APLD.

1. Nucleotome Probe
2. Marking Pen
3. Measuring Scale
4. Scalpel
5. Guide Needle
6. Cannula/Dilator
7. Curved Cannula/Dilator
8. Trephine

• Nucleotome Probe - Instrument used to aspirate and shave nucleus pulposus. A seal nut with "O" ring is included on the probe needle, which is used to lock into the cannula when the probe is activated and to provide an airtight seal.
• Surgical Marking Pen - Used to mark entry point into the body.
• Measuring Scale - Used to assist in marking the correct entry point.
• Scalpel - May be used to incise the skin to faciliate easy passage of components.
• Guide Needle - Used for initial Access inside the disc and ensure correct path of instruments.
• Cannula/Dilator - Passed over Guide Needle to create a working channel.
• Curved Cannula/Dilator - Used in certain anatomy.
• Trephine - Used to incise the annulus.

How Nucleotome Probe Works

Once access is gained to the nucleus of the disc, the Nucleotome probe is inserted through the working channel cannula. The Nucleotome probe has a rounded tip with a side port near the distal end. saline is pneumatically driven through the probe by the Nucleotome Console, which creates a vacuum effect and sucks nuclear material through the side port. As nuclear material is suspended in saline, a reciprocating inner cannula shaves the nucleus at a rate of up to 180 cuts per minute. Nucleus is suctioned through tubing attached to the Nucleotome handle and collected in a filter within an aspiration canister.