Plasma Nucleoplasty

What is Plasma Nucleoplasty?

Plasma nucleoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat herniated or bulging spinal discs that cause pain, numbness, or other neurological symptoms. The procedure involves using a specialised device to create a plasma field within the affected disc. This controlled energy reduces the pressure within the disc by removing a small amount of its nucleus, relieving nerve compression and alleviating pain. Plasma nucleoplasty is typically performed on an outpatient basis and is suitable for individuals who have not responded to conservative treatments.

Types of Plasma Nucleoplasty Procedures

Plasma nucleoplasty can be tailored to the patient's specific condition and the extent of disc damage. Common types include:

Percutaneous Disc Decompression: This is the standard plasma nucleoplasty technique, where a thin probe is inserted into the affected disc to create a plasma field that reduces disc material and relieves pressure on surrounding nerves.

Multi-Level Disc Treatment: For patients with symptoms caused by herniations in multiple discs, plasma nucleoplasty may be performed at more than one spinal level during the same procedure.

Targeted Nerve Decompression: This approach focuses on reducing disc material in areas causing nerve root compression, which is particularly effective for conditions like sciatica or cervical radiculopathy.

Combination Procedures: In some cases, plasma nucleoplasty may be combined with other minimally invasive techniques, such as epidural steroid injections, to optimise pain relief and improve outcomes.

Benefits of Plasma Nucleoplasty

Plasma nucleoplasty offers several advantages over traditional open disc surgery, including:

• Minimally Invasive Technique: The procedure requires only a small incision, minimising tissue damage and reducing recovery time.

• Outpatient Procedure: Most patients can return home on the same day, avoiding lengthy hospital stays.

• Reduced Pain and Quick Recovery: The targeted nature of the treatment allows for faster pain relief and a quicker return to normal activities.

• Preservation of Spinal Stability: Unlike some open surgeries, plasma nucleoplasty does not involve removing significant disc material, maintaining the spine’s structural integrity.

• Lower Risk of Complications: The procedure reduces the risks associated with traditional surgeries, such as infection or extensive bleeding.

Symptoms and Conditions Treated with Plasma Nucleoplasty

Plasma nucleoplasty is used to treat a variety of conditions affecting the spine, including:

• Herniated or Bulging Discs: Where disc material compresses nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, or tingling.

• Sciatica: Pain radiating down the leg caused by compression of the sciatic nerve.

• Cervical Radiculopathy: Nerve compression in the neck causing pain and neurological symptoms in the arms or shoulders.

• Mild to Moderate Disc Degeneration: Disc-related pain without significant spinal instability.

Diagnosis and Treatment Process

Diagnosis: A thorough evaluation is necessary to determine whether plasma nucleoplasty is the right treatment. Diagnostic steps include:

• Medical History and Physical Examination: To assess symptoms, reflexes, and neurological function.

• Imaging Studies: MRI or CT scans provide detailed views of the affected discs and help confirm the source of pain.

• Nerve Function Tests: Electromyography (EMG) may be performed to evaluate nerve and muscle activity, especially in cases involving nerve root compression.

Treatment: The plasma nucleoplasty procedure involves the following steps:

• Preoperative Planning: Imaging and diagnostic results guide the placement of the probe within the affected disc.

• Minimally Invasive Procedure: A small incision is made, and a thin probe is inserted into the disc using imaging guidance. A plasma field is created to remove a portion of the disc’s nucleus, reducing pressure and alleviating nerve compression.

• Postoperative Care: Patients are monitored briefly after the procedure and typically return home the same day. A tailored rehabilitation plan may include light exercises and activity modifications to support recovery.

Conclusion

Plasma nucleoplasty provides a safe and effective solution for individuals suffering from disc-related back or neck pain. Its minimally invasive nature offers significant benefits, including quicker recovery, reduced pain, and minimal disruption to daily life. At Singapore Brain Spine Nerves Center, we specialise in advanced spinal treatments, including plasma nucleoplasty, to help you regain comfort and mobility. If you are exploring options for managing disc-related conditions, schedule a consultation with us today.