Chronic back pain not only effects everyday activities such as walking, bending over and even getting dressed, but it also limits mobility and disrupts overall physical function in daily life. Degenerative disc disease could be the root of the pain. Up to 40% or more adults over the age of 40 have at least one degenerated disc. At Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics, our specialists work with patients dealing with back pain. If you’re experiencing chronic back pain, you may be a candidate for the VIA Disc NP procedure.
What is a VIA Disc NP Procedure?
VIA Disc NP is a minimally invasive, non-surgical outpatient procedure most used for patients with chronic back pain who have failed conservative care. It treats degenerative disc disease by replacing lost tissue. Patients who have this procedure experience reduced pain and increased spinal function.
Similar to other pain management procedures, the consideration process to receive this procedure includes an initial office consultation where Dr. Michael Del Busto provides a physical exam, review of advanced images and discusses treatment options.
VIA Disc NP provides a restorative solution to pain and function, whereas many other treatments may simply mask pain. We are addressing the problem at its root cause.
Who Can Benefit from VIA Disc NP?
This procedure is for patients who have experienced tissue loss within the lumbar intervertebral discs. These patients have chronic low back pain that is typically worse with prolonged sitting and bending forward who have failed conservative care. This is not for patients with referred pain in the legs with numbness, burning or weakness.
How Does The Procedure Work?
A VIA Disc NP is an allograft of lumbar disc that is able to be fluoroscopically placed in the spine without surgery through a needle similar to an injection. The procedure takes 15 to 30 minutes to complete in an outpatient setting.
What Is the Expected Recovery Timeframe?
The recovery from this procedure is a few days The patient will be at home recovering after the procedure. Heavy lifting will be limited for one week after the procedure and then progress back to activities thereafter.
The procedure is minimally invasive and only a needle is needed to place the implant. This allows for a faster recovery within a matter a few days.
Is Rehabilitation Required after the Procedure?
No. Patients do not need any rehabilitation after VIA Disc NP.
How Long Do Results Last?
Clinical studies have shown that 70% of patients experience approximately 50 to 70% pain reduction with sustained pain relief for up to 12 months. Ongoing studies are being done to provide longer-term outcome data. Individual results may vary.
Does Insurance Cover VIA Disc NP?
Medicare, VA, some federal plans and worker’s compensation insurance cover the procedure. Most commercial payers do not cover the procedure currently.
Meet With a Specialist Today
At Forté Sports Medicine & Orthopedics, our specialists offer expert treatment options to restore the function of your spine and relieve chronic pain. If you’re ready to discover options for your back pain to find relief, we are here to help. Schedule a consultation today, to get started on your path to recovery.
*The VIA Disc NP procedure will take place at the Franciscan Orthopedic Hospital at the Carmel Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics location.
Travel routes to our Carmel Forté office have been impacted by road closures for the Level Up 31 project. Please add extra travel time for your appointment. Visit http://levelup31.com/ for more details.