The DiscFX procedure is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat herniated discs in the spine. A herniated disc occurs when the soft, gel-like material inside the disc bulges or leaks out through a tear in the outer layer of the disc. This can put pressure on the surrounding nerves and cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the lower back, legs, or feet.
DiscFX is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat herniated discs in the spine. The procedure is performed by a trained physician using a small, tube-like device called a catheter. The catheter is inserted into the affected area of the spine through a small incision, and then guided to the site of the herniated disc.
Once the catheter is in place, a laser is used to remove a small portion of the disc material. This creates a space within the disc, which relieves pressure on the surrounding nerves and reduces pain. The procedure is typically done on an outpatient basis, and patients can usually return to normal activities within a few days.
Some of the benefits of the DiscFX procedure include:
The DiscFX procedure is typically used to treat patients who have a single herniated disc in the lumbar (lower) region of the spine. It may not be appropriate for patients who have multiple herniated discs or other spinal conditions. Your physician can help determine if the DiscFX procedure is appropriate for your specific condition.
Like any medical procedure, there are potential side effects that patients may experience. However, the risks associated with the DiscFX procedure are generally low, and most patients experience minimal side effects. Common side effects include soreness or swelling at the procedure site. Although rare, patients may experience infection at the procedure site. To reduce the risk of infection, patients should follow their physician’s aftercare instructions carefully and contact their physician immediately if they experience any signs of infection at the site. Additionally, patients may experience tingling or numbness in the affected area, particularly if the herniated disc was causing nerve compression. This may take some time to resolve as your nerves heal.
Your aftercare instructions may vary slightly depending on your individual medical needs but generally include rest, activity modification, and managing any temporary increases in pain through oral medications and icing the affected area for 20 minutes at a time. Your Clearway care team will ensure you understand all of your aftercare instructions to maximize the procedure’s effectiveness.
Overall, the DiscFX procedure is a promising new option for patients who suffer from herniated discs in the lower back. It offers a minimally invasive alternative to traditional open surgery, with a high success rate and fast recovery times. If you are considering the procedure, be sure to discuss it thoroughly with your physician to determine if it is the right treatment option for you.
Did you know there are different kinds of pain? As we delve deeper into Pain Awareness Month, let’s simplify and understand these types better
September is Pain Awareness Month, a time to acknowledge the widespread and often invisible issue of chronic pain, and how it affects countless individuals daily.
Pain Awareness Month serves as a vital reminder to acknowledge and empathize with those who battle chronic pain daily. If you have a loved one dealing with chronic pain, your support can make a significant difference in their journey toward relief and improved quality of life.
Are you ready to alleviate your pain and restore your physical function so you can live your best life – the one you want and deserve? The entire Clearway team is ready to help.
To request an appointment, please click the button below. You will be routed to our Patient Portal, where you can register with us by providing us with some basic information. We will get back as quickly as possible to set up and confirm your appointment day and time. Just below the form, we provide answers to some of the most frequently asked questions, as well.
