Intracept®

What is the Intracept® Procedure?

The Intracept Procedure is a minimally invasive, outpatient treatment designed to relieve chronic low back pain caused by damage to the vertebral endplates — the interface between your spinal discs and vertebrae.

Using a specialized probe, your provider carefully applies targeted radiofrequency energy to ablate the basivertebral nerve, which transmits pain signals from the affected area. By disrupting these signals, the procedure can provide long-lasting pain relief without the need for more invasive surgery.

Who is a good candidate for Intracept?

The Intracept Procedure may be right for you if:

• You’ve experienced chronic low back pain for six months or longer
• Imaging (such as MRI) shows changes in your vertebral endplates known as Modic changes
• Conservative treatments — like physical therapy, medications, or injections — haven’t provided lasting relief
• Your pain is thought to originate from vertebrogenic sources rather than herniated discs or spinal instability

Your Integrated Pain Consultants provider will review your medical history, imaging, and symptoms to determine if this approach is right for you.

What happens during the procedure?

The Intracept Procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia with mild sedation in an outpatient setting:

1. Preparation — You’ll lie comfortably as your provider numbs the treatment area.
2. Precise targeting — Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, a specialized probe is positioned into the vertebral body.
3. Nerve ablation — Controlled radiofrequency energy is delivered to the basivertebral nerve, stopping its ability to send pain signals.
4. Recovery — Most patients go home the same day and can resume normal activities within a few days.

What results can I expect?

Clinical studies have shown that patients who undergo the Intracept Procedure experience significant and durable improvements in pain and function — often lasting years after treatment.

While individual results vary, many people report:

• Less reliance on pain medications
• Improved mobility and quality of life
• Greater participation in daily and recreational activities

Is the Intracept Procedure safe?

Yes. The Intracept Procedure is FDA-cleared and has been proven safe and effective in multiple clinical studies. Because it’s minimally invasive, risks are low, and recovery is typically faster compared to traditional spine surgeries.

Call the nearest Integrated Pain Consultants office today to find out if the Intracept Procedure is right for you, or book your appointment online.