Basivertebral Nerve Ablation (Intracept Procedure)

Basivertebral Nerve Ablation, also called the Intracept Procedure, is a minimally invasive treatment for chronic low back pain. It works by targeting a the basivertebral nerve inside the bones of your spine which sends pain signals to your brain. By gently heating and deactivating this nerve, the treatment can provide long-term relief for certain types of back pain.

This outpatient procedure is designed to help people living with chronic pain who haven’t found relief from other treatments like physical therapy, injections, or medications. By focusing directly on the source of pain inside the vertebrae, Basivertebral Nerve Ablation may improve function, reduce the need for pain medications, and help you return to normal daily activities.

Is Basivertebral Nerve Ablation Right for You?

This treatment is most helpful for those who are dealing with chronic low back pain that has lasted for six months or longer and has not responded to conservative care. It’s especially effective for people who have signs of Modic changes on an MRI. These are changes in the bone marrow near the spinal discs that suggest ongoing inflammation or degeneration.

You may be a candidate for this procedure if:

    • You have pain that starts in the center of your lower back (not pain that travels down the legs).

    • Your MRI shows Type 1 or Type 2 Modic changes in your spine.

    • You’ve already tried treatments like medications, physical therapy, or injections without lasting relief.

  • You want to avoid long-term use of opioids or more invasive surgery.

How Does Basivertebral Nerve Ablation Work?

Inside each vertebra, there’s a nerve called the basivertebral nerve. This nerve plays a role in sensing pain from the vertebral endplates, which are the borders between your vertebrae and spinal discs. When these endplates become damaged, they can trigger chronic back pain through the basivertebral nerve.

During the Intracept Procedure, a small probe is inserted into the painful vertebra using X-ray guidance. Once the probe is in place, it delivers heat to gently disable the basivertebral nerve. This stops the nerve from sending pain signals to your brain.

Because this nerve doesn’t grow back, the relief from pain can be long-lasting and may reduce the need for future procedures.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Your pain specialist will begin by reviewing your symptoms, medical history, and MRI scans to look for Modic changes. If your imaging matches your symptoms and other treatments haven’t helped, the Intracept Procedure may be recommended.

The procedure is done in an outpatient setting, so you’ll go home the same day. You’ll receive local anesthesia and light sedation to keep you comfortable. A small incision is made in the lower back, and a special tool is guided through the bone to reach the basivertebral nerve. Once the tool is in place, a radiofrequency probe delivers heat to deactivate the nerve. After the treatment, the incision is closed with a small bandage.

What To Expect After The Procedure

Most people go home shortly after the procedure and can return to light activity within a few days. You may feel some mild soreness at the site, but this usually goes away quickly.

Pain relief often begins within a few weeks, though some people notice improvement even sooner. As your body adjusts, you may find it easier to move, sleep, and go about your daily life without the same level of discomfort. Many people report long-lasting results and no need for additional procedures.

Since the basivertebral nerve doesn’t regenerate, this treatment may offer durable relief that doesn’t wear off over time.

Follow-up Care

You’ll have a follow-up visit within the first few weeks to monitor your recovery. After that, you may only need occasional check-ins unless you have concerns or symptoms return. Most people do not need any additional treatment after the Intracept Procedure, but your care team will work with you to track your progress and make adjustments if needed.

Common Questions About Basivertebral Nerve Ablation

Does the procedure hurt?

You’ll receive local numbing and relaxing medication to keep you comfortable during the procedure. Most people feel little to no pain while it’s happening. Afterward, mild soreness at the incision site is normal and usually fades in a few days.

Will I still need my medications?

Many people are able to reduce their pain medications after the procedure, especially if they feel strong relief. However, results vary. Your doctor will work with you to adjust your medication plan based on how you’re doing and what feels best for you.

Is this a permanent solution?

Because the basivertebral nerve doesn’t grow back, many people experience long-lasting pain relief. While results vary, most people don’t need another procedure for a long time, and some may not need one at all.

How soon will I feel better?

Some people start to notice relief in the first few days, while others may take a few weeks. Everyone heals a little differently, but most people feel steady improvement over time.

Common Conditions Treated by Basivertebral Nerve Ablation: