Percutaneous · No fusion

Basivertebral nerve ablation

For chronic low back pain caused by damaged vertebral endplates — vertebrogenic pain, often associated with Modic changes on MRI — basivertebral nerve ablation uses radiofrequency energy to disrupt the nerve carrying that pain signal.

Licensed illustration

Transpedicular probe placement
Suggested: transpedicular probe trajectory into the vertebral body for basivertebral nerve ablation.

Who this treats

Vertebrogenic low back pain Modic type 1/2 changes Chronic discogenic-type pain

How it's performed

  1. 01

    Candidacy

    MRI confirms Modic changes at the level(s) responsible for the pain.

  2. 02

    Access

    A probe is guided through the pedicle into the vertebral body under imaging guidance.

  3. 03

    Ablation

    Radiofrequency energy is delivered to disrupt the basivertebral nerve.

  4. 04

    Recovery

    An outpatient procedure with a brief recovery period.

Technology used

O-Arm CT navigation

Supports precise probe trajectory into the vertebral body.

Recovery & expectations

Setting
Outpatient / same day
Light activity
Within days
Pain relief
Builds over weeks to months

Individual recovery varies by procedure complexity, overall health, and adherence to post-operative guidance. Discuss your specific timeline during consultation.

What patients say

I saw Dr Zaidi to get options for treating my back pain. I have tried many different treatments but nothing worked. Dr Zaidi explained what he might be able to do for me in great detail. He also gave me reading material to study on my condition.
Debi L. · Google review
Great doctor. Finally a doctor who actually cared after the five years of pain I have been in.
Shane Y. · Google review
Dr. Zaidi listened to my goals and concerns, and worked with my other doctors involved in my complicated medical conditions. My spinal surgery went so well because I was medically ready for the success.
Maria F. · Google review

Verbatim from public Google reviews, shown with first name and last initial. Individual experiences, not a guarantee of outcome. More patient reviews →

Ready to talk about whether this procedure is right for you?

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