Chronic low back pain is one of the most common reasons adults seek medical care. For many, the pain persists despite physical therapy, medications, chiropractic care, or injections. If you’ve been living with long-standing low back pain that hasn’t improved with traditional treatments, Basivertebral Nerve Ablation (BVNA)—also known as the Intracept Procedure—may offer the long-term relief you’ve been searching for.
At Kansas Pain Management, we specialize in advanced, minimally invasive therapies that target the true source of pain. Basivertebral nerve ablation is one of the most promising breakthroughs for patients suffering from vertebrogenic low back pain.
What Is Vertebrogenic Low Back Pain?
Vertebrogenic low back pain originates from the basivertebral nerve, which sits inside the vertebral body (the main part of the spine’s bones).
This nerve can become irritated due to:
- Modic Type 1 or Type 2 changes
- Age-related degeneration
- Chronic stress on the spine
- Repetitive strain
- Disc degeneration
These changes lead to inflammation and persistent pain deep in the lower back.
Patients with vertebrogenic pain often describe their symptoms as:
- Deep, aching low back pain
- Pain aggravated by bending, lifting, or prolonged sitting
- Pain not relieved by typical spine treatments
- Pain lasting 6 months or longer
What Is Basivertebral Nerve Ablation (Intracept)?
Basivertebral Nerve Ablation is an FDA-cleared, minimally invasive procedure designed to stop pain at its source by disabling the basivertebral nerve inside the vertebrae.
The Intracept System uses radiofrequency (RF) energy to gently heat and ablate (deactivate) the nerve responsible for sending pain signals to the brain.
Key benefits of the Intracept procedure:
- Minimally invasive
- No incisions—only a small puncture
- Outpatient procedure
- No hardware or implants
- Long-lasting relief (studies show results lasting 5+ years)
- Fast recovery
How the Procedure Works
Here’s what patients can expect:
Step 1: Diagnosis
Your pain management specialist will confirm vertebrogenic pain using:
- MRI imaging (to detect Modic changes)
- A thorough physical exam
- Review of pain history and previous treatments
Step 2: Procedure
During the Intracept procedure:
- You are positioned comfortably under mild sedation.
- A small cannula is guided into the affected vertebra using advanced imaging.
- A thin probe delivers controlled radiofrequency heat to the basivertebral nerve.
- The nerve is ablated, blocking pain signals at the source.
The entire procedure typically takes 60–90 minutes.
Step 3: Recovery
- Most patients return home the same day.
- Normal activities can resume in a few days.
- Pain relief may begin within 2–6 weeks, with continued improvement over months.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
You may be a candidate for Basivertebral Nerve Ablation if:
✔ You have chronic low back pain for 6 months or more
✔ You have Modic type 1 or type 2 changes on MRI
✔ Pain has not improved with conservative treatments
✔ Pain is worse with sitting, bending, or activity
✔ Your pain is in the midline or deep in the low back
This procedure is NOT meant for patients with nerve compression, instability, or severe spinal stenosis.
Why Intracept Is a Breakthrough
✔ Long-lasting relief
Clinical studies show significant pain reduction sustained for at least 5 years, with many patients reporting life-changing improvements.
✔ Targets the true source of pain
Instead of masking symptoms, BVNA disables the nerve generating the pain signals.
✔ Minimally invasive
No implants, no hospital stay, and much quicker recovery compared to spine surgery.
✔ Ideal for patients who have tried everything else
This procedure offers hope for those who failed injections, therapy, or medications.
Basivertebral Nerve Ablation at Kansas Pain Management
At Kansas Pain Management, our interventional pain specialists are trained in the latest minimally invasive spine techniques. We ensure:
- Accurate diagnosis
- Personalized treatment planning
- Safe, precise procedure using state-of-the-art equipment
- Comprehensive follow-up care
Our goal is to help you regain mobility, reduce pain, and return to the activities you enjoy.
Ready to Find Out If You’re a Candidate?
If chronic low back pain is affecting your daily life, the Intracept Basivertebral Nerve Ablation procedure could be the relief you need.
📞 Call Kansas Pain Management Today
📍 Serving Overland Park, Kansas City, Olathe & surrounding areas
🔹 Schedule an evaluation with our spine specialists
Let us help you take the next step toward lasting pain relief.
