Basivertebral Nerve Ablation (BNA) Procedure
Basivertebral Nerve Ablation (BNA)
Treatment Overview
Basivertebral nerve ablation is a minimally invasive procedure aimed at relieving vertebrogenic pain, a type of chronic lower back pain caused by damage to the vertebral endplates. It focuses on the basivertebral nerves, which sense the bony surfaces of the spinal vertebrae and is believed to play a key role in transmitting pain signals from the endplates to the brain.
How the Procedure Works
During the procedure, a specialized probe is inserted into the affected vertebrae. Controlled radiofrequency energy is then applied to the basivertebral nerves through the probe, disrupting their ability to transmit pain signals and potentially providing relief.
Who Benefits from Basivertebral Nerve Ablation
Basivertebral nerve ablation is effective for individuals with:
- Vertebrogenic Pain: Chronic low back pain caused by damage to the vertebral endplates, which are the bony surfaces of the spinal vertebrae.
- Degenerative Disc Disease: Pain stemming from the degeneration of spinal discs, often affecting the vertebral endplates.
Not all people with chronic low back pain are candidates for this procedure. The procedure is typically considered when conservative treatments — such as physical therapy, medications and injections — have not provided sufficient relief, and the pain is believed to originate from the vertebral endplates.
What to Expect
- Preparation: Using imaging guidance like fluoroscopy, a thin needle is inserted into the vertebrae through a small incision to locate the basivertebral nerves.
- Procedure: Radiofrequency energy is applied through the needle to heat and disrupt the basivertebral nerves, blocking pain signals. The minimally invasive procedure usually takes less than an hour.
- Recovery: Some discomfort at the injection site is normal, but recovery is quick. Most people resume normal activities within a few days.
Insurance & Billing
Your eligibility for any procedure depends on the benefits outlined by your insurance provider, and our team at Nura will assist you with the authorization process.
Comprehensive Care
At Nura, we seamlessly integrate interventional procedures, physical therapy, psychological support and medications. Research shows that this comprehensive approach is the most effective way to manage chronic pain.
Find Pain Relief
Schedule an appointment with one of our pain specialists by filling out our appointment request form or giving us a call at 763-537-6000.
