CHAPTER 13
CERVICAL
UCLEOPLASTY
(This is the section that explains the detail of the operation or procedure
above and should be read in conjunction with the chapter Your eck
Operation).
A cervical Nucleoplasty is performed for pain that is caused by damaged
intervertebral discs. The aim of the procedure is to reduce pressure on the
small nerves that are found in the annulus fibrosus. This is done by shrinking
the nucleus pulposus (see the chapter Anatomy of the Spine). The modality
used for this is similar to radiofrequency rhizotomies, but a device is used
which utilises coblation technology to dissolve tissue without damage to
nearby normal structures.
The reason why your specialist performs this procedure and not a more inva-
sive operation is because he or she is trying to be as conservative as possible
in treating your condition. The aim is to treat your symptoms without resort-
ing to a more invasive operation.
When undergoing this procedure, you will be lying on your back on bolsters
or pillows. Your specialist will use an X-ray machine to guide the needle that
is used to do the procedure with. A patented plasma device is then inserted
through the needle into the disc, whereby excess tissue is removed. Removing
some of the tissue from the centre of the disc causes a reduction in intra-dis-
cal pressure, which in turn eases symptoms.
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