Discogel is one of the newest disc treatment methods that has received attention in recent years. This drug is a combination of a special type of alcohol gel and tungsten metal, which is guided by a fluoroscope or CT scan and based on radiology images in the nucleus. The disc is injected.
- Is Discogel suitable for all types of disc protrusions? Undoubtedly no. In cases where progressive weakness occurs in the patient, or urine and stool control is disturbed, or the disc is excessively dehydrated, or the slippage of the vertebra and spinal canal stenosis are the cause of the patient's pain and problems, this method may not be a suitable method for treatment.
How does this method treat the disc? After injecting discogel into the core of the disc, following chemical interactions, the water content of the disc gradually decreases after a while, as a result, the volume of the disc decreases and the protrusion of the disc recedes, and the compressive effects of the disc on the nerve roots. Also, with the penetration of this compound into the tears of the outer layer (annulus), the weak parts of the peripheral layer of the disc regain consistency and are strengthened.
Are the effects of Discogel permanent and does this treatment need to be repeated? no This injection is done only once in each disk and does not need to be repeated.
_Does this treatment method require hospitalization or anesthesia? No, this procedure is performed on an outpatient basis without the need for anesthesia, of course, due to the need for sterile conditions and a fluoroscope device, it is usually performed in hospitals or well-equipped medical centers.
_ How long after the operation can the patient resume his daily activities? From the day after the operation, the patient can return to his normal life, although it is better to avoid heavy activities for a while.
Dr. Hossein Arjamand