Patient Information Resources


Orthopedic Services
Glendale Adventist Medical Center
1509 Wilson Terrace
Glendale, CA 91206
Ph: (818) 409-8000






Ankle
Elbow
Foot
Fractures
General
Hand
Hip
Knee
Pain Management
Shoulder
Wrist

View Web RX

« Back

Last month I had a treatment to my spine called IDET. Now that I'm feeling human again, I started wondering how they actually do this procedure. I know the surgeon explained it all to me. But I was in so much pain, I didn't hear much of anything. I'm a little embarrassed to ask my doctor to re-explain it to me, so I thought I could find out from you.

Intradiscal electrothermal therapy (IDET) is a form of heat treatment applied directly to the disc. After the patient is anesthetized, the surgeon inserts a long, thin needle through the skin into the center of the disc. A special X-ray device called fluoroscopy guides the surgeon throughout the procedure.

Next, a heat-resistant coil is inserted through the needle into the disc. The coil is positioned in the outer portion of the posterior (back of the) annulus. The annulus is the outside covering of the disc. It surrounds the inner core called the nucleus. A heating electrode is placed next to the protective coil. Only the area in contact with the electrode heats up.

Heat is applied until the temperature of the annulus reaches a pre-determined point. This is decided according to the surgeon performing the procedure. The target temperature is maintained for at least five minutes. One or two discs can be treated this way per session.

The patient is anesthetized under conscious sedation. This means the person is awake but doesn't feel anything. This way, the patient can report any signs or symptoms of nerve root irritation right away. If all goes well, the needle is removed and the operation is over. The procedure is done on an out-patient basis. The patient goes home the same day.


References:

« Back





*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic.


All content provided by eORTHOPOD® is a registered trademark of Mosaic Medical Group, L.L.C.. Content is the sole property of Mosaic Medical Group, LLC and used herein by permission.