Percutaneous Disc Decompression

Pain Management Treatments in Texas

Percutaneous disc decompression (PDD) is a minimally invasive procedure that is used to treat pain caused by a herniated disc. A herniated disc occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc bulges or ruptures through a tear in the outer ring of the disc. This can put pressure on the surrounding nerves, causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the back, neck, arms, or legs.

PDD is performed using a thin needle that is inserted into the herniated disc through a small incision in the back. The needle is guided into place using X-ray or fluoroscopic imaging. Once the needle is in place, a small amount of the disc material is removed using a variety of techniques, including:

Laser: A laser is used to vaporize a small amount of the disc material.
Coblation: A radiofrequency device is used to heat and remove a small amount of the disc material.
Chymopapain: An enzyme is injected into the disc to dissolve a small amount of the disc material.

Removing a small amount of the disc material can help to reduce pressure on the surrounding nerves and relieve pain.

Benefits of percutaneous disc decompression

PDD offers a number of benefits over traditional open-back surgery, including:

Minimally invasive: PDD is a minimally invasive procedure, which means that it is performed through a small incision and does not require the surgeon to cut through the muscles or bones of the back.
Less pain: PDD is generally less painful than open-back surgery.
Shorter recovery time: PDD has a shorter recovery time than open-back surgery. Most people are able to go home from the hospital the same day as the procedure and return to normal activities within a few weeks.
High success rate: PDD has a high success rate, with most people experiencing significant pain relief after the procedure.

Who is a good candidate for percutaneous disc decompression?

PDD is a good option for people who have:

A herniated disc that is causing significant pain
A herniated disc that has not responded to other treatments, such as physical therapy and medication
No other medical conditions that would make them a high-risk candidate for surgery

What to expect during and after percutaneous disc decompression

PDD is typically performed as an outpatient procedure. The procedure takes about 30-60 minutes to complete.

Before the procedure, the patient is given a sedative to help them relax. They may also be given local anesthesia to numb the area where the needle will be inserted.

During the procedure, the patient lies on their stomach on a table. The surgeon makes a small incision in their back and inserts a needle into the herniated disc. The surgeon will use X-ray or fluoroscopic imaging to guide the needle into place.

Once the needle is in place, the surgeon will remove a small amount of the disc material using one of the techniques described above.

After the procedure, the patient is monitored for a few hours in a recovery room. They're allowed to go home once they're stable.

Most people experience some pain and discomfort after PDD. This is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. They may also be advised to wear a back brace for a few weeks to help support the back.

Risks and side effects of percutaneous disc decompression

PDD is generally a safe procedure. There are some potential risks and side effects, however, such as:

Infection
Bleeding
Nerve damage
Allergic reaction to the anesthetic or other medications used during the procedure
Recurring herniated disc

Conclusion

Percutaneous disc decompression is a safe and effective treatment for herniated discs. It offers a number of benefits over traditional open-back surgery, including less pain, a shorter recovery time, and a high success rate.

If you suffer from a herniated disk and would like to know if the percutaneous disc decompression is right for you, make an appointment with us. We'll perform a full evaluation and create a treatment program for your unique situation.