Four friends smiling outside.

IntraDiscal Electrothermal Therapy (IDET)

What Is IntraDiscal Electrothermal Therapy (IDET)?

IntraDiscal Electrothermal Therapy (IDET) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic back pain caused by damaged or degenerated intervertebral discs. During the IDET procedure, a catheter is inserted into the affected disc under fluoroscopic guidance. Once in position, the catheter delivers controlled heat to the damaged disc tissue. This heat helps to shrink and repair the disc’s outer layer (annulus), reducing pressure on surrounding nerves and alleviating pain. IDET is often considered when more conservative treatments, such as physical therapy and medication, haven’t provided adequate relief.

How Does IDET Help Relieve Back Pain?

The heat applied during the IDET procedure stimulates the healing of the damaged tissue within the disc. This can reduce the size of the disc bulge or tear, which in turn alleviates pressure on the spinal nerves. The procedure is most effective for patients who have been diagnosed with chronic low back pain caused by disc herniation, bulging discs, or degenerative disc disease. IDET works by repairing the disc’s outer wall and reducing the inflammation and pressure that causes pain. The procedure offers a less invasive alternative to surgery and has a relatively quick recovery time.

Benefits and Considerations of IDET

  • Minimally Invasive: Unlike traditional spinal surgeries, IDET doesn’t require large incisions. It’s performed through a small needle insertion, making it less invasive and reducing the risk of complications.
  • Effective Pain Relief: Many patients experience significant improvement in pain levels after the procedure, with some even returning to normal activities within a few weeks.
  • Quick Recovery: Since it’s minimally invasive, the recovery time is much faster compared to traditional surgery. Most patients can resume regular activities within a short period.
  • Not for Everyone: IDET is not suitable for all types of back pain. It’s typically recommended for patients with chronic back pain due to disc damage that hasn’t responded to conservative treatments.

Choose Advanced Pain Management for Your IntraDiscal Electrothermal Therapy (IDET)

If you're struggling with chronic back pain and have not found relief from traditional treatments, IntraDiscal Electrothermal Therapy (IDET) might be the solution you need. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our specialists and find out if IDET is right for you. Let us help you get back to living a pain-free life with a personalized treatment plan designed to address your specific needs.