Phone: 0797 55 402
WHAT IS THIS METHOD?
The term “nucleoplasty” comes from the Latin “nucleos” meaning core, and “plastica” meaning to mold or change shape. It is a minimally invasive, high-tech procedure aimed at correcting a deformed nucleus pulposus of an intervertebral disc.
WHY IS IT MINIMALLY INVASIVE?
The procedure is low-trauma, performed without incisions or stitches, through a micro-puncture, leaving no scars on the skin at the operation site. There is minimal risk of blood loss and no damage to nerve structures, which classifies it as a conservative non-surgical treatment.
WHY IS IT HIGH-TECH?
It uses a high-tech method of cold ionizing plasma. In 1995, the American company Arthro Care (ArthroCare Corp., USA) developed the first cold plasma generator and a set of electrodes for it.
Since then, this technology has been used in many surgical fields, including spinal surgery. In the Republic of Moldova, we were the first and so far the only medical center to introduce this method into our practice.
The essence of the method is the introduction, under X-ray control, of a special needle with an electrode into the nucleus pulposus of the disc, which has been deformed due to degenerative processes.
Between the contacts of this electrode, a potential difference arises, and as charged particles move, cold plasma is generated. The plasma triggers a restructuring process of the disc’s structure – compression and densification of its substance occur. As a result, some volume of the nucleus pulposus evaporates and is removed through the hollow needle. Due to the gradual reduction in size, the hernia/protrusion stops pressing on the nerve, retracts back, nerve impulse conduction is restored, and pain disappears.
WHY IS IT CALLED “COLD”?
Because the working temperature of the plasma (45-50 degrees Celsius) is comparable to body temperature, which means there is no risk of thermal damage to adjacent structures, nerve roots, vessels, or the fibrous ring. This makes the method one of the safest.
INDICATIONS FOR COLD PLASMA NUCLEOPLASTY:
- Radicular (nerve root) pain syndrome radiating to the lower limb.
- Localized pain syndrome in the lumbar spine.
- Another condition is the presence of a disc protrusion or hernia no larger than 6 mm. The height of the intervertebral disc on which the procedure is planned should be at least 75% of the original.
- The period of ineffective conservative treatment before cold plasma nucleoplasty should be about 3 weeks.
PREPARATION AND EXAMINATION BEFORE COLD PLASMA NUCLEOPLASTY INCLUDE:
- Specialist doctor’s examination.
- Mandatory MRI.
- Functional overview X-rays.
- In some cases, computed tomography is necessary.
PREPARATION BEFORE COLD PLASMA NUCLEOPLASTY:
- Before hospitalization for surgery, the patient undergoes standard preoperative testing and is admitted on the day of the procedure.
- The operation lasts on average about half an hour per hernia.
- Up to 4 hernias can be removed in one surgical session.
- The patient is conscious; the procedure is performed under local anesthesia.
- The procedure is done on an outpatient basis. The patient can be discharged the next day.
After cold plasma nucleoplasty, no complex rehabilitation is required; within 3-5 days, the patient returns to normal life, except for avoiding heavy physical strain on the spine, especially the treated areas. Wearing a special corset is recommended for a short time after the procedure.
Most patients notice improvement and pain relief immediately after the procedure. The full effect is assessed after 2 months, during which the patient is monitored by the doctor.
Dear followers! The need for cold plasma nucleoplasty is determined by specific indications after consultation with a specialist. If you are troubled by back pain, especially if it radiates to any leg, please contact the Galaxia clinic. We are always ready to help you! Wishing you good health!
Phone: 0797 55 402
