Procedure Description
The Intracept® Procedure is a minimally invasive, FDA-cleared treatment designed to relieve chronic low back pain that originates from the vertebral endplates—a condition known as vertebrogenic pain. This type of pain is transmitted by the basivertebral nerve, which is located inside the vertebral bodies of the spine.
The Intracept® Procedure works by ablating (disabling) the basivertebral nerve using radiofrequency energy, thereby stopping it from transmitting pain signals to the brain. This innovative approach targets the source of pain, not just the symptoms, and is a durable, non-implant solution.
What It Treats
The Intracept® Procedure is specifically used to treat:
Chronic vertebrogenic low back pain lasting 6 months or longer
Pain caused by degeneration or inflammation of vertebral endplates
Patients with Modic type 1 or 2 changes on lumbar spine MRI
Pain localized to the lower back, not radiating into the legs
It is best suited for patients who have not found adequate relief from conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or injections, and who wish to avoid more invasive surgery or spinal implants.
How It Is Performed
The patient is positioned face down and placed under conscious sedation or general anesthesia.
Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, a small incision is made in the lower back.
A specialized cannula is advanced into the vertebral body through a transpedicular approach.
The Intracept® radiofrequency probe is inserted and guided to the basivertebral nerve.
Controlled radiofrequency energy is delivered to ablate (heat and disable) the nerve.
The probe and cannula are removed, and the small incision is closed with a bandage—no hardware or implant is left behind.
The procedure typically takes about 60–90 minutes and is performed in an outpatient surgical setting.
Pre-Procedure Instructions
You may be asked to fast for 6–8 hours before the procedure if sedation or anesthesia is planned.
Review your medications with your provider. You may need to pause blood thinners several days prior.
Inform your provider if you:
Have an allergy to contrast dye or anesthesia
Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Have a current infection, fever, or uncontrolled medical conditions
Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home after the procedure.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing on the day of your appointment.
What to Expect After the Procedure
Most patients return home the same day.
Mild soreness at the incision site or in the lower back is normal and usually resolves within a few days.
Initial results may be felt as early as 2 weeks, with continued improvement over 6–12 weeks.
You may resume light activities within a few days, with a gradual return to full activity over several weeks.
Your physician may recommend a post-procedure physical therapy program to enhance recovery.
Call your provider if you experience:
Signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, fever, or drainage
New numbness, leg weakness, or loss of bowel/bladder control (rare)
Persistent or worsening pain that is not typical post-procedure soreness
Lasting Relief from Vertebrogenic Low Back Pain
At Parkview Spine & Pain, we are proud to offer the Intracept® Procedure as a safe, effective, and minimally invasive solution for chronic vertebrogenic low back pain. If you're living with persistent pain and looking for a long-term solution without spinal fusion or implants, this innovative approach may be right for you.
👉 Schedule a consultation today to find out if you're a candidate for the Intracept® Procedure.