Intercept Procedure

What Is the Intracept® Procedure?

The Intracept® Procedure is a minimally invasive treatment designed to relieve chronic low back pain that originates from the vertebrae, also called vertebrogenic pain. This type of pain is often associated with inflammation of the basivertebral nerve inside the spine.

Using advanced image guidance, the procedure targets and treats the nerve responsible for transmitting pain signals from the vertebrae. The goal is long-lasting relief without major surgery.

Who May Benefit from the Intracept® Procedure?

You may be a candidate if you have:

• Chronic low back pain lasting 6 months or longer
• Pain that has not improved with conservative treatments such as:
  • Physical therapy
  • Medications
  • Chiropractic care
  • Injections
• MRI findings showing Modic changes (inflammatory changes in the vertebrae)
• Difficulty with daily activities due to ongoing back pain

A comprehensive evaluation and imaging review are necessary to determine if the procedure is appropriate for you.

How the Procedure Works

The Intracept® Procedure uses radiofrequency energy to gently deactivate the basivertebral nerve, interrupting the transmission of pain signals from the affected vertebrae.

During the Procedure:

• The patient is positioned comfortably and given anesthesia or sedation.
• Using X-ray guidance, a specialized instrument is placed into the affected vertebra.
• Radiofrequency energy is applied to treat the targeted nerve.
• The procedure is performed through a small incision and typically takes about 60–90 minutes.

Most patients go home the same day.

Benefits of the Intracept® Procedure

Potential benefits include:

• Long-lasting low back pain relief
• Improved mobility and daily function
• Minimally invasive treatment
• No spinal hardware or implants
• Outpatient procedure with a relatively quick recovery
• Reduced need for pain medications

Many patients experience gradual improvement over several weeks following treatment.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery is generally straightforward. Patients are usually encouraged to walk and resume light activities shortly after the procedure.

You may experience:

• Mild soreness at the treatment site
• Gradual improvement in pain over time

Your physician will provide personalized post-procedure instructions and activity recommendations.

Risks and Considerations

As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks, although complications are uncommon. These may include:

• Temporary soreness or discomfort
• Bleeding or infection
• Nerve irritation
• Incomplete pain relief

Your provider will discuss the risks and benefits in detail before treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Intracept® Procedure a surgery?

No. It is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure performed through a small incision.

How long does pain relief last?

Clinical studies have shown durable pain relief for many patients, often lasting years.

Will I be asleep during the procedure?

Most patients receive sedation or anesthesia for comfort during treatment.

How soon can I return to normal activities?

Many patients return to light activities within a few days, depending on their physician’s recommendations.

Schedule a Consultation

If chronic low back pain is limiting your quality of life, the Intracept® Procedure may be an option. A consultation with a pain management specialist can help determine whether this treatment is right for you.