What the treatment does
Basivertebral nerve ablation treats the nerve inside a vertebral body using radiofrequency energy. Instruments are guided with imaging through a small incision. No permanent implant remains.
Who may be considered
Selected patients with chronic axial low back pain, relevant Modic type 1 or 2 changes, and persistent symptoms despite appropriate nonsurgical care may be considered. The clinician must also assess competing pain sources.
Expectations and risks
Temporary soreness may occur. Improvement can take time. Risks include bleeding, infection, nerve injury, increased pain, and failure to improve. Your clinician explains the procedure-specific risks and recovery plan.
Questions to ask at your visit
- Which pain source is this treatment intended to address?
- What are the alternatives in my case?
- What improvement should we measure, and when?
- What restrictions and follow-up will I need?
This guide is general education. Eligibility, technique, and recovery depend on your individual circumstances.
Learn more: Johns Hopkins spinal cord stimulation guide · Interventional treatment overview