Learn about Intradiscal Electrothermal Therapy (IDET), who it is for, how it is performed and aftercare.
About 30 min
Under 1 cm
Local
Next day
Discharge after 3 days
After stitch removal
A thin needle is inserted into the disc, and low-temperature radiofrequency energy is applied
to restore and repair the bulging disc.
It selectively blocks only the nerves that cause pain
and reduces the size of the disc through decompression,
relieving nerve compression and strengthening the disc.
Because pain is relieved once the bulging disc is reduced,
the effect can be felt immediately.
People with persistent pain from repeated disc injury and degenerative tears
Patients with chronic disc disease
People with disc degeneration in which the fibrous ring of the disc is torn
People with internal disc disruption, in which the nucleus of the disc has darkened and deteriorated
People whose low back pain does not improve with medication or physical therapy
A specially designed catheter is inserted into the disc.
Heat is conducted through the catheter placed in the annulus fibrosus of the disc.
The catheter delivers heat energy to the annulus fibrosus under a tightly controlled process.
A heat-conducting wire is inserted into the disc through a thin needle, and radiofrequency heat is applied.
First, only the nerves around the disc that cause pain are selectively treated.
The collagen fibers around the disc are contracted and firmed, making the disc stronger.
You can sit for about 30–40 minutes at a time, then you should straighten your back. Whole-body exercises that bend the back backward are allowed. Avoid working, lifting, bending and stress, and always wear your brace.
You can lift about 2 kg. Light housework or office work is possible, but avoid bending or twisting your back and any strenuous activity.
You can lift up to about 5 kg. Avoid twisting your back or strenuous exercise, and keep an upright posture. Keep your head and neck straight and do not slouch.
You can lift 10–25 kg. Maintaining good posture is still important at this stage, and you should continue to use your brace.
Do light exercise during the first month. During the following month, take a walk or stretch every day.
You can do exercises such as spinal flexibility exercises, cycling, hiking and aerobics.
