The diagnostic procedure is performed to confirm that the pain is caused by a damaged intervertebral disc. If the disc is damaged, its inner part is pushed out and can irritate the spinal nerves. It is typically associated with activities that increase pressure on its inner core, such as sitting, leaning forward, coughing, or sneezing. Pain from the disc may be accompanied by pain in the lower limbs caused by irritation of the surrounding nerves, especially when sitting, getting up or walking. Back pain is generally permanent, present during the whole day, in contrast to root pain, which is variable.
How does the procedure work?
We insert a guide needle to the edge of the disc, through which we then insert another “discographic” needle entering the disc itself. Using a syringe, a contrast agent is injected into the disc under pressure. This will allow us to view its structure. At the same time, it causes pain for the patient, thanks to which they are able to confirm or refute that this is the type of pain that has been causing them problems for a long time.
- Outpatient surgery
- Duration up to 20 minutes
- Without local anesthesia
If follow-up therapy is needed, we proceed to other minimally-invasive and endoscopic procedures.
