Intradiscal Electrothermal Therapy

Lumbar Pain Relief

Intradiscal electrothermal therapy (IDET) is a procedure that may be helpful for people who have chronic disc-related low back pain lasting at least six months. Pain relief from IDET tends to occur gradually over the weeks following this procedure.

This minimally invasive procedure can repair small fissures in the spinal discs, reduce disc bulges, and deaden nerve endings to reduce pain. IDET does not relieve pain from other disorders of the spine (such as arthritis or spondylolisthesis).

About The Procedure

Intradiscal electrothermal therapy is an outpatient procedure performed under a local anesthetic, and patients may receive a mild sedative beforehand. The physician inserts a small catheter into the spinal disc, between the soft inner portion and the disc’s outer wall. A needle inside the catheter heats the disc wall, repairing small tears and thickening the cartilage.

What to Expect

This procedure may result in soreness, inflammation, and increased pain for a few days. Patients who have IDET treatment will also need physical therapy to ensure they’re strengthening their lower backs and regaining mobility. For the first few months following this procedure, patients should keep up with their prescribed exercises.

Get Help for Lower Back Pain

Patients who benefit most from this procedure are in good health, with no other spinal disorders. If we believe IDET won’t result in significant improvement of your symptoms, we can recommend other procedures and treatments for your lower back pain.

Schedule your consultation with American Pain Consortium by calling or contacting us online.