Ascension Seton offers treatment for chronic low back pain

Ascension Texas Spine and Scoliosis Center is the first in Central Texas to offer a new approach to provide relief for patients suffering from chronic low back pain (CLBP).

The new treatment is the Intracept Procedure – a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure which targets a nerve located in the bones of the spine (vertebrae). During the procedure, surgeons advance a specialized probe into the vertebrae and uses radio-frequency energy (heat) to disable the nerve, rendering it unable to transmit pain signals. Intracept takes approximately 60-90 minutes and does not involve an implant or change the structure of the spine.

“Other than surgery, we’ve never had anything to offer patients suffering from debilitating chronic low back pain that have failed conservative therapy,” said Dr. Eeric Truumees, orthopedic surgeon at the Ascension Texas Spine and Scoliosis Center and professor of orthopedic surgery at Dell Medical School at The University of Texas at Austin. “With the Intracept Procedure, we are embarking on a paradigm shift in how we treat chronic low back pain. The significant improvement in pain and function demonstrated by the Intracept Procedure provides clear proof of the effectiveness of this treatment.”

Intracept is indicated for patients who have experienced chronic low back pain for at least six months and have not responded to at least six months of conservative care. The procedure is newly available outside of a research setting. Physicians at Ascension Texas Spine and Scoliosis Center had been studying the procedure as part of an FDA trial since 2013.

Central Texas area residents interested in learning more about the Intracept Procedure can call 512-324-3580 for more information.