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IDET
Procedure
IDET:
( Intradiscal Electrothermal Annuloplasty )
IDET
or Intradiscal Electrothermal Annuloplasty is a relatively new
procedure to treat discogenic back pain. It is a new alternative
to other surgical procedures for patients who suffer from back
pain caused by certain types of disc problems.
The procedure is fairly advanced that is made possible by the
development of electrothermal catheters that allow for careful
and accurate temperature control. The procedure works by cauterizing
the nerve endings within the disc wall to help block the pain
signals.
IDET
is a minimally invasive outpatient surgical procedure developed
over the last few years to treat patients with chronic low back
pain that is caused by tears or small herniations of their lumbar
discs.
The IDET
process takes about an hour to complete and is done as follows:
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The procedure is performed with a local anaesthetic
and mild intravenous sedation
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A hollow introducer needle is inserted into
the painful lumbar disc space using a portable x-ray machine
for proper placement
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An electrothermal catheter (heating wire)
is then passed through the needle and positioned along the
back inner wall of the disc (the annulus), the site believed
to be responsible for the chronic pain. The catheter tip is
then slowly heated up to 90 degrees Celsius for 15-17 minutes
-
The heat contracts and thickens the collagen
fibers making up the disc wall, thereby promoting closure
of the tears and cracks. Tiny nerve endings within these tears
are cauterized (burned), making them less sensitive.
-
The catheter is removed along with the needle
and, after a short period of observation, the patient goes
home.
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A lumbar support is worn for 6 to 8 weeks,
followed by an appropriate course of physical therapy. Lifting
and bending precautions are necessary during this time to
allow for adequate healing of the disc.
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