What is a herniated disc?

 

A herniated disc is a bulge in a spinal disc. The discs in your spine act like shock absorbers between the vertebrae. A herniated disc presses against the nerve causing pain.

 

Are there different kinds of herniated discs?

Yes, there are various kinds. An important distinction is between “contained” and “non-contained” herniations. Each disc is made up of two different parts— the nucleus and the annulus. The annulus is the outside portion of the disc and completely surrounds the nucleus to hold and protect it.

 

a) In a contained herniated disc, the nucleus pushes against the annulus causing it to bulge and press against the nerve. Studies have shown that if the ideal patient is selected, nearly 80% will benefit from the Nucleotome procedure.

 

 

b) With a non-contained herniated disc, the nucleus pushes its way through the annulus and presses directly against the nerve. An individual with a non-contained herniated disc is usually not a good candidate for the Nucleotome procedure.

 

What is the Nucleotome® procedure?

 

The Nucleotome procedure is designed to reduce the bulging nucleus enough to eliminate the pressure it is placing on the nerve. A miniature probe with automated shaver and suction device is inserted into the disc. The incision through the skin is less than 1/4 inch. The Nucleotome allows your doctor to remove nuclear tissue. By removing some of the nucleus from the disc, the pressure on the nerve root is reduced or eliminated along with the pain.

 

Will I benefit from Nucleotome therapy?

 

Your doctor is the best person to answer that question. In many cases, Nucleotome therapy can return the quality of life you had prior to the onset of the leg and low back pain.

 

Is the Nucleotome technique a new procedure?

 

Doctors have been removing part of the nucleus since about 1936. Over 125,000 Nucleotome procedures have been performed. Multiple studies have shown that 4 out of 5 properly selected patients with contained herniated discs benefit from this procedure.

 

Is the Nucleotome procedure risk-free?

 

Any medical procedure has risks. The Nucleotome procedure is no exception but the risks are minimal with proper technique because of the less invasive approach, and the unique design features of the Nucleotome probe.

 

Do I need to stay in the hospital over night?

 

A Nucleotome procedure is normally performed in an outpatient setting. This means you will arrive at the outpatient clinic or hospital in the morning of the procedure and go home the same day. Your doctor will most likely administer a local anesthesia and you will be conscious during the procedure.

 

If I am awake during the procedure, will I feel pain?

 

The potential for feeling discomfort during the procedure does exist. Everyone’s pain level is different, so it is impossible to predict whether you will experience pain. You will be awake during the procedure, however, so if you inform your doctor of any discomfort, the local anesthetic can be adjusted appropriately.

 

Will I have a scar?

 

A very small one. After the Nucleotome procedure, you will go home with a band-aid over the incision. This is a clear advantage over traditional surgery.

 

How soon after the procedure can I expect relief from my pain?

 

The quality of life for most patients usually improves in just a matter of days and, for some, a noticeable improvement is detected on the same day. Your doctor will prescribe additional therapy as needed after your Nucleotome procedure.

 

What if I’m the one of the few who doesn’t benefit from Nucleotome?

 

If you are one in five patients who does not benefit from Nucleotome therapy, you have not eliminated any of your options. Your doctor will still be able to offer the same therapeutic options you have today.