TREATMENT OVERVIEW
Percutaneous Disc Decompression (PDD) is an ultra-minimally invasive procedure to relieve pain from contained ("bulging") or herniated discs. This technique reduces pressure inside the disc to alleviate pain on surrounding nerves, offering rapid relief with just a needle-based approach and avoiding traditional surgery.
PROCEDURE DETAILS
After you receive IV sedation, the area on your back is numbed with a local anesthetic. Using live X-ray (fluoroscopy) for guidance, your doctor inserts a small needle, or cannula, into the affected disc, avoiding sensitive structures.
Once in place, a specialized probe (like the Disc-FX® or Dekompressor®) is inserted through the needle. This device uses radiofrequency energy or a tiny rotating auger to remove a small amount of the inner disc material (nucleus).
By removing this material, the pressure inside the disc is reduced, which helps the disc bulge retract away from the nerve root. The instruments are then removed, and a simple band-aid is applied to the needle site. No stitches are needed.
TREATMENT ADVANTAGES
This technique is a major advancement for treating disc pain, offering a middle ground between simple injections and major surgery.
The entire procedure is performed through a single needle. There is no incision, no stitches, and no scarring.
Patients walk out the same day and typically resume light activities in just a few days, compared to weeks or months for surgery.
No muscles are cut or disrupted, leading to significantly less pain and stiffness than traditional open surgery.
Directly targets and removes a small portion of the disc nucleus, immediately reducing pressure on the painful nerve root.
Does not require fusion, implants, or removal of bone. The natural motion and stability of the spine are preserved.
Performed with local anesthetic and light sedation, avoiding the risks and recovery time of general anesthesia.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
PDD is an extremely safe procedure, especially when compared to surgery. All interventions carry some risk, but complications are rare.
Important: This procedure is specifically for contained disc herniations. It is not designed for large, extruded fragments (free fragments) or severe spinal instability.
PREPARATION GUIDE
Preparation is simple and focused on ensuring your safety during the sedated procedure.
You must have a recent MRI confirming a contained disc herniation that matches your symptoms of sciatica or radiculopathy.
Stop blood thinners (Aspirin, Plavix, etc.) and NSAIDs as instructed by your doctor, typically 5-7 days before.
Do not eat or drink after midnight. You must have a responsible adult drive you home due to the sedation.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to take on and off. You will change into a gown for the procedure.
RECOVERY GUIDE
Recovery is extremely fast. The main priority is allowing the needle entry point to heal and the nerve to calm down.
After the ~30-60 min procedure, you'll be monitored for 1-2 hours. You will be discharged and sent home the very same day.
Rest and take it easy. You will have soreness at the needle site, managed with ice. Avoid Bending, Lifting, or Twisting (BLT) to protect the disc.
You can gradually increase your activity. Formal physical therapy is often started to strengthen your core and back muscles to prevent re-injury.
Pain relief can be immediate for some, but it often improves steadily over 2-6 weeks as the nerve inflammation subsides and the disc decompression takes full effect.
Please don't hesitate to reach out and request an appointment. We look forward to meeting with you, addressing your concerns, and working together to enhance your quality of life.