Basivertebral nerve ablation is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat chronic low back pain originating from the vertebral endplates. Colorado Interventional Health Sciences offers this innovative treatment for patients who have not found relief through conservative therapies.
What is Basivertebral Nerve Ablation?
Basivertebral nerve ablation (BVA) is a procedure that targets the basivertebral nerve, which runs through the center of each vertebral body in the spine. This nerve is responsible for transmitting pain signals from the vertebral endplates — the cartilage-like surfaces at the top and bottom of each spinal disc. When these endplates become damaged or degenerated, they can become a significant source of chronic low back pain. By ablating the basivertebral nerve using radiofrequency energy, pain signals from this area are interrupted, providing lasting relief.
How does Basivertebral Nerve Ablation work?
The procedure is performed under fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance with the patient lying face down. A small probe is inserted through a tiny incision in the back and guided into the vertebral body. Once in position, radiofrequency energy is delivered through the probe, generating heat that ablates the basivertebral nerve. The entire procedure typically takes 60 to 90 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients go home the same day. Because the nerve is inside the bone rather than surrounding soft tissue, the procedure is highly targeted and causes minimal disruption to surrounding structures.
Who is a candidate for Basivertebral Nerve Ablation?
Basivertebral nerve ablation may be appropriate for patients who meet the following criteria:
- Chronic low back pain lasting six months or longer
- Pain that has not responded adequately to conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or injections
- MRI findings showing Modic Type 1 or Type 2 changes — specific changes in the vertebral endplates that indicate the basivertebral nerve is a likely pain source
- Pain primarily located in the lower back rather than radiating down the legs
A thorough evaluation at Colorado Interventional Health Sciences will determine whether basivertebral nerve ablation is the right treatment for your specific condition.
What are the benefits of Basivertebral Nerve Ablation?
Basivertebral nerve ablation offers a number of important advantages for appropriate candidates:
- Minimally invasive — requires only a small incision and no general anesthesia
- Preserves normal spinal anatomy and does not limit future treatment options
- Significant and durable pain relief lasting two years or more in many patients
- Outpatient procedure — no hospital stay required
- Short recovery time with most patients returning to normal activities within days
What should I expect during and after the procedure?
Prior to the procedure, your physician at Colorado Interventional Health Sciences will review your medical history, imaging studies, and prior treatments to confirm you are an appropriate candidate. On the day of the procedure, you will be positioned comfortably and the treatment area will be numbed with local anesthetic. Mild sedation may also be provided for comfort. The probe is carefully guided into position using real-time X-ray imaging, and radiofrequency energy is then delivered to ablate the nerve. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure. Afterward, you will be monitored briefly before being discharged home. Some patients notice mild soreness at the treatment site for a few days following the procedure.
What is the recovery like after Basivertebral Nerve Ablation?
Recovery from basivertebral nerve ablation is generally straightforward:
- Resume light activities within one to two days
- Return to normal daily activities within a week
- Pain relief typically begins within a few weeks with continued improvement over the following months
- Physical therapy is often recommended to strengthen spinal muscles and maximize long-term outcomes
- Colorado Interventional Health Sciences will monitor your progress throughout recovery to ensure the best possible result
Colorado Interventional Health Sciences is committed to providing each patient with personalized, comprehensive care. If you are suffering from chronic low back pain and would like to learn more about basivertebral nerve ablation, please contact our office to schedule a consultation.