What is BVN Ablation?

Basivertebral Nerve (BVN) ablation is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat chronic vertebrogenic back pain—pain originating from the vertebral bodies due to degenerative endplate changes. This procedure targets the basivertebral nerve (BVN), which transmits pain signals from the vertebral endplates to the brain. By disrupting these pain signals, BVN ablation provides long-lasting relief for eligible patients.

Ideal Candidates for Basivertebral Nerve Ablation

BVN ablation is specifically indicated for patients who meet the following criteria:

• Chronic Low Back Pain: Persistent pain lasting at least six months.
• Failure of Conservative Treatments: No significant improvement after six months of standard therapies, including medications, physical therapy, and injections.
• MRI Evidence: Presence of Type 1 or Type 2 Modic changes on MRI scans, indicating degenerative changes in the vertebral endplates.
• Activity-Related Pain: Patients whose back pain worsens with forward bending, lifting, or prolonged sitting.

How Does the Procedure Work?

BVN ablation involves inserting a thin radiofrequency probe into the vertebral body to create a heat lesion on the basivertebral nerve, effectively disrupting pain signals.

Procedure Overview

• Preparation: The patient is positioned for optimal spinal access. Local anesthesia is administered, and sedation may be provided for comfort.
• Access: Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, a small incision (~0.5 cm) is made, and a specialized needle is inserted through the pedicle into the vertebra.
• Ablation: A radiofrequency probe is advanced to the BVN location, heating and deactivating the nerve for 10 minutes to block pain signals.

The entire procedure typically lasts 45 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis.

Post-Procedure Recovery & Outcomes

• Minimal Downtime: Patients are monitored briefly and usually discharged within hours.
• Recovery Timeline: Light activities can typically be resumed within a few days, while strenuous activities should be avoided for approximately two weeks to promote healing.
• Expected Relief: Clinical studies have demonstrated significant and sustained pain relief, with most patients experiencing long-term improvements in function and pain relief lasting over five years after a single treatment.

Potential Risks and Complications

While complications are uncommon, potential risks include infection, bleeding, and nerve injury. These are minimized through sterile techniques, prophylactic antibiotics, and precise imaging guidance during the procedure.

Who Can Receive BVN Ablation?

At Advanced Spine and Pain, BVN ablation is available for patients who qualify under the following payment options:

• Medicare Part B
• Cash-Pay
• Personal Injury (PI) Cases

Note: This procedure is not covered by commercial insurance plans at this time.

Why Choose BVN Ablation?

• Minimally Invasive – No implants, no fusion surgery
• Proven Long-Term Relief – Clinical studies show sustained pain relief for 5+ years
• Quick Recovery – Many patients resume normal activities within weeks
• Safe & Effective – FDA-approved and performed by leading pain specialists

Take the Next Step Toward Pain Relief

If you suffer from chronic low back pain and are looking for a lasting solution, contact Advanced Spine and Pain today to schedule a consultation and see if BVN ablation is right for you.