Percutaneous disc decompression using nucleoplasty.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of Nucleoplasty for decompression of contained herniated discs, in a prospective, single site study that evaluated 49 consecutive patients with complaints of back with or without leg pain secondary to a contained focal protrusion. Access to the disc was obtained via the posterolateral discography approach, with a 17-gauge introducer needle inserted through the annulus and into the nucleus. The introducer remained in place within the outer annulus during the entire procedure, providing access for the SpineWand into the nucleus.

Side effects and complications after percutaneous disc decompression using coblation technology.

Objective: To report the short-term side effects and complications after percutaneous disc decompression utilizing coblation technology.

Design: Following institutional review board approval, consecutive patients who were to undergo percutaneous disc decompression using coblation technology (nucleoplasty) were prospectively enrolled. Patients were questioned preoperatively, postoperatively, and 24 hrs, 72 hrs, 1 wk, and 2 wks postprocedure by an independent reviewer regarding 17 possible symptom complications, which included bowel or bladder symptoms, muscle spasm, new pain, numbness/tingling or weakness, fevers/chills, rash/pruritus, headaches, nausea/vomiting, bleeding, and needle insertion site soreness.