Intracept at Orthopedic Specialists of SW Florida

Basivertebral Nerve Ablation

Take the First Step Toward Lasting Relief from Lower Back Pain.

If you’ve been living with chronic lower back pain that hasn’t responded to conservative treatments, Orthopedic Specialists of SW Florida offers a breakthrough solution: the Intracept® Procedure. This minimally invasive, outpatient treatment targets the basivertebral nerve—the source of vertebrogenic back pain—to deliver long-term relief without the need for implants or spinal fusion. Our spine specialists are proud to offer this advanced option to help you regain mobility, reduce pain, and get back to living life on your terms.

Understanding Vertebrogenic Pain

Chronic low back pain can have many causes, but vertebrogenic pain originates from the vertebral endplates—the interface between the disc and the vertebra. When these endplates are damaged, they activate the basivertebral nerve, which transmits pain signals. If you’ve experienced persistent pain in the lower back that hasn’t improved with physical therapy, injections, or medications, vertebrogenic pain may be the cause.

Is Intracept® Right for You?

The Intracept® Procedure may be appropriate if you’ve had chronic low back pain for six months or more, tried conservative treatments without relief, and your MRI shows Modic changes—a sign of inflammation at the vertebral endplates.

Patients who benefit often report pain in the center of the lower back that worsens with activity, sitting, bending, or lifting.

As with any procedure, risks should be discussed with your healthcare provider to determine if Intracept is the right fit for you.

What to Expect: Before, During, and After the Procedure

Before the Procedure:
Your provider will confirm that you are a candidate for Intracept using a detailed review of your symptoms, medical history, and MRI imaging. You’ll receive instructions about fasting, medications, and what to bring on the day of your procedure. Most patients do not need any special preparation beyond standard pre-procedure guidelines.

During the Procedure:
The Intracept Procedure is performed in an outpatient setting under general anesthesia. A small incision is made, and a specialized probe is guided into the vertebra to target the basivertebral nerve. The nerve is then ablated (deactivated) using radiofrequency energy. The entire procedure typically takes about one hour, and no implants are used.

After the Procedure:
Patients return home the same day and are able to resume light activities within a few days. Some soreness at the incision site or general fatigue may occur temporarily. Pain relief typically begins to appear within two to six weeks, with continued improvement over time. Your care team will provide follow-up instructions and support throughout your recovery.

Our Intracept Specialist:

Jason Cullen, MD

Dr. Jason Cullen is a board-certified physician in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, fellowship-trained in interventional spine and musculoskeletal medicine. He attended Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, completed his residency at East Carolina University, and his fellowship at Wake Forest Baptist.

Dr. Cullen specializes in non-surgical interventional spine procedures and is passionate about treating spinal disorders and musculoskeletal conditions to improve patients’ quality of life.

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