How BVN Ablation Can Provide Back Pain Relief for Those with Type 1 or Type 2 Modic Changes

Back pain is one of the most common complaints among adults, and for many, it can become a chronic condition that significantly affects quality of life. At Caliber Pain™ in New York City, we specialize in providing innovative and effective solutions for back pain, including treatments for patients suffering from Modic changes—specifically Type 1 and Type 2. One of the promising treatments we offer is the bisivertebral nerve (BVN) ablation, a minimally invasive procedure designed to target and reduce chronic back pain at its source.

Understanding Modic Changes: Type 1 and Type 2

Modic changes refer to specific degenerative alterations in the vertebrae of the spine, identifiable through MRI scans. These changes are categorized into three types based on the degree of degeneration and the associated inflammation:

• Type 1 Modic changes: These involve bone marrow inflammation and are often associated with intense pain, as the body reacts to vertebral damage with an inflammatory response.
• Type 2 Modic changes: This type reflects the degeneration of fatty tissues within the bone marrow, signaling long-standing chronic changes in the vertebrae. Though generally less inflammatory than Type 1, they can still cause significant discomfort.

Both types are linked to degenerative disc disease, a condition where the discs between vertebrae lose flexibility and can lead to back pain. Individuals with these changes often experience chronic low back pain that doesn’t respond well to traditional treatments, including physical therapy and medication. This is where BVN ablation comes into play.

What Is BVN Ablation?

Basivertebral Nerve (BVN) ablation is a cutting-edge procedure designed to address chronic lower back pain, particularly for those suffering from Type 1 and Type 2 Modic changes. The procedure targets the basivertebral nerve, which transmits pain signals from the vertebral endplates—areas where Modic changes commonly occur.

During the procedure, a physician inserts a small probe into the affected vertebra through a tiny incision. Using radiofrequency energy, the probe precisely ablates, or deactivates, the basivertebral nerve, stopping the transmission of pain signals from the affected area. The entire process is minimally invasive, typically taking less than an hour, and is often performed under local anesthesia with mild sedation.

How BVN Ablation Helps Patients with Modic Changes

Patients with Type 1 or Type 2 Modic changes are ideal candidates for BVN ablation because this procedure directly addresses the source of their pain. The basivertebral nerve plays a crucial role in transmitting the chronic pain signals that arise from degenerative conditions like Modic changes. By ablating this nerve, the body stops sensing the pain caused by the vertebral degeneration, offering long-term relief. Benefits of BVN ablation include:

• Minimally invasive: Requires only a small incision and is performed under local anesthesia.
• Long-lasting relief: Most patients experience significant pain relief for months or even years.
• Quick recovery time: Patients can typically return to normal activities within a few days of the procedure.
• Improves quality of life: Reduced pain leads to better mobility and the ability to engage in daily activities without discomfort.

Several studies have shown that patients who undergo BVN ablation experience significant and sustained improvements in pain levels and physical function. This procedure is especially beneficial for those who have not found relief from more conservative treatments, like physical therapy or medication, and for those who prefer to avoid more invasive options, such as spinal fusion surgery.

At Caliber Pain™ in NYC, we are dedicated to providing effective, lasting solutions for chronic back pain, including BVN ablation for patients with Modic changes. If you’re struggling with ongoing back pain, particularly if you have been diagnosed with Modic changes, BVN ablation could be the answer you’ve been looking for. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a pain-free life.