Coblation – nucleotomy-discectomy, cervical episode

Coblation – nucleotomy-discectomy, cervical episode

The team of the Lower Silesian Center for Minimally Invasive Spine Neurosurgery KCM Clinic in Jelenia Góra specializes in minimally invasive and endoscopic surgical treatment of cervical, lumbar and thoracic spine diseases.

Coblation – nucleotomy-discectomy, cervical, thoracic and lumbar segments

Nucleoplasty using the coblation method is one of the repair procedures belonging to the minimally invasive spine surgery. The procedure involves the percutaneous removal of a part of the intervertebral disc, which is part of the disc. Incorrect movement of the intervertebral disc causes pain in the cervical spine. Appropriate specialist diagnosis allows you to qualify for the coblation Nucleoplasty procedure.

What does this procedure look like?

The nucleotomy-discectomy using coblation method is typically performed as a minimally invasive outpatient procedure, usually under general anesthesia. The procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. An incision is made in the back to access the affected intervertebral disc.
2. Using specialized imaging techniques, the herniated portion of the disc is located and marked.
3. The coblation device is inserted through the incision and positioned near the damaged nucleus pulposus.
4. The coblation device is activated, using radiofrequency energy to create a cooled plasma that dissolves and removes the damaged nucleus while preserving the surrounding tissue.
5. The removed nucleus is suctioned out of the body through the coblation device.
6. The incision is closed, and the patient is placed in a recovery room to monitor for any adverse reactions.

The procedure typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the extent of the damage to the disc. After the procedure, the patient is usually able to go home the same day and can expect to return to normal activities within a few days, although a period of rest and physical therapy may be recommended to promote healing and improve recovery.

How does the recovery looks like?

Recovery from nucleotomy-discectomy using coblation method typically depends on the individual and the extent of the disc damage. However, the procedure is typically performed as a minimally invasive outpatient procedure, and most patients experience relatively quick and relatively mild recovery.

Typically, patients can expect the following after the procedure:

1. Pain relief: Most patients experience a reduction in pain, especially back pain, as the pressure on the affected nerve root is relieved.
2. Rest: Although most patients are able to return home on the same day, a period of rest is usually recommended to allow the body to heal.
3. Physical therapy: A physical therapist may provide exercises to improve flexibility, strength, and range of motion in the affected area.
4. Medications: Pain relief medications may be prescribed to help manage any discomfort during the recovery period.
5. Follow-up visits: Regular follow-up visits with the surgeon may be recommended to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments to the recovery plan.

It is important to keep in mind that every patient’s recovery is different and that recovery times can vary depending on the extent of the disc damage, the patient’s overall health, and other factors. The surgeon can provide more specific information on the expected recovery timeline.