Introduction
Chronic lower back pain can be frustrating, persistent, and difficult to treat — especially when traditional therapies fail to provide lasting relief. For many patients, the source of pain lies deep within the vertebrae themselves. This is where Basivertebral Nerve Ablation (BVNA) offers a breakthrough solution.
At London Spine Health, we offer advanced, evidence-based treatments like BVNA to target pain at its origin and help patients regain control of their lives.
What Is Basivertebral Nerve Ablation?
Basivertebral Nerve Ablation (BVNA), often referred to as the Intracept procedure, is a minimally invasive treatment designed to relieve chronic lower back pain caused by inflammation within the vertebral bones.
The procedure works by targeting and ablating (deactivating) the basivertebral nerve, which transmits pain signals from the vertebrae to the brain. By interrupting this pathway, BVNA can significantly reduce or eliminate pain.
This treatment is particularly effective for patients with vertebrogenic pain, often identified by specific changes on MRI known as Modic changes.
Who Is BVNA Suitable For?
BVNA is not for all types of back pain. It is specifically designed for patients who:
- Have chronic lower back pain lasting more than 6 months
- Have not responded to physiotherapy, medication, or injections
- Show Modic type 1 or type 2 changes on MRI scans
- Experience pain that is centralised in the lower back (rather than radiating down the legs)
- Do not have significant spinal instability or nerve compression requiring surgery
A detailed consultation and imaging review at London Spine Health will determine whether BVNA is appropriate for your condition.
How the Procedure Works
BVNA is performed as a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure, usually under sedation or light general anaesthesia.
The steps include:
- A small incision is made in the lower back.
- A specialised probe is guided into the affected vertebra using X-ray imaging.
- Radiofrequency energy is applied to the basivertebral nerve.
- The nerve is ablated, preventing it from transmitting pain signals.
- The probe is removed, and the incision is closed.
The entire procedure typically takes 60–90 minutes, and most patients go home the same day.
Benefits of Basivertebral Nerve Ablation
BVNA has gained recognition for its effectiveness in treating chronic vertebrogenic pain. Key benefits include:
- Long-lasting pain relief by targeting the source of pain
- Minimally invasive with no major surgery required
- Quick recovery time compared to traditional procedures
- Reduced reliance on pain medication
- Improved mobility and quality of life
- Backed by clinical evidence and long-term studies
Many patients report significant improvement within weeks, with continued benefits over months and years.
Recovery After BVNA
Recovery from basivertebral nerve ablation is generally straightforward:
- Patients typically return home the same day
- Mild soreness at the incision site may occur for a few days
- Light activities can be resumed within a few days
- Most patients return to normal routines within 1–2 weeks
Your consultant may recommend physiotherapy or guided exercises to support long-term spine health.
BVNA vs Traditional Treatments
Unlike injections or medication, which provide temporary relief, BVNA targets the underlying pain pathway. Compared to major spine surgery, it is:
- Less invasive
- Lower risk
- Faster recovery
- Suitable for a specific group of chronic pain patients
It fills an important gap between conservative care and more invasive surgical procedures.
Why Choose London Spine Health?
At London Spine Health, we combine advanced technology with expert clinical judgement to deliver the most appropriate care for each patient.
- Performed by Mr Irfan Malik, a leading consultant spine surgeon
- Access to advanced MRI diagnostics to identify Modic changes
- Specialisation in minimally invasive spine procedures
- Personalised care plans tailored to your lifestyle and goals
- Central London location on Harley Street
We focus on treating the cause of pain — not just managing the symptoms.
Book a Consultation for BVNA
If you’ve been living with chronic lower back pain and other treatments haven’t worked, Basivertebral Nerve Ablation may be the solution you’ve been waiting for.
Call +44 20 7390 6000 Or book your consultation online at London Spine Health today.
