DiscoGel & Doctor

Discogel injection, also known as chemonucleolysis with DiscoGel, is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat lumbar disc herniation and degenerative disc disease. It involves injecting a radiopaque gelified ethanol (DiscoGel) into the nucleus pulposus of the affected disc. This gel helps to reduce intradiscal pressure, potentially relieving pain and improving function.  

             Minimally Invasive: The procedure is performed percutaneously (through the skin)

                under local anesthesia, typically in an outpatient setting. 

                DiscoGel is a sterile, viscous solution composed of ethanol gel, cellulose, and tungsten. 

• Mechanism of Action: The gel works by: 
  • Reducing Pressure: The gel causes a loss of fluid in the nucleus pulposus, leading to a decrease in pressure within the disc. 
  • Sealing Fissures: The cellulose component of the gel may help seal fissures or cracks in the annulus fibrosus (the outer part of the disc). 
  • Decompressing Nerves: By reducing pressure, the gel can relieve pressure on nearby spinal nerves, potentially alleviating pain and other symptoms. 
  • Blocking Pain Receptors: The ethanol may also help block pain receptors in the annulus fibrosus. 
• Fluoroscopic Guidance: The injection is performed under fluoroscopic guidance (using X-rays) to ensure accurate placement of the needle and gel. 
• Outpatient Procedure: Typically, patients can go home a few hours after the procedure. 

Benefits:

• Minimally Invasive: Less invasive than traditional surgery.
• Outpatient Procedure: Usually performed on an outpatient basis.
• Potential Pain Relief: Can provide pain relief for some individuals with disc herniation or degenerative disc disease.
• Lower Infection Risk: Theoretically, lower risk of infection compared to other intradiscal treatments.
• Can be Used for Multiple Discs: Multiple discs can be treated during the same procedure. 

Important Considerations:

• Not a Cure-All: Discogel injection may not be effective for all individuals with disc problems. 
• Not Suitable for All Cases: It is generally not recommended for patients with severe neurological deficits or those who have not responded to conservative treatments, according to a study published in the National Institutes of Health (NIH). 
• Potential for Failure: Some patients may require further treatment, including surgery, if the procedure is not successful, according to a study published in the National Institutes of Health (NIH). 
• Individualized Treatment: The suitability of Discogel injection should be determined by a qualified healthcare professional based on a thorough evaluation of the patient's condition. 

Board-certified Neurosurgeon. Holder of DHA and MOH certificates. Holder of Implantation Certificate, France. Holder of Disco gel Certificate, France.

A pioneer in non-surgical/interventional treatment of disc herniation in the Middle East and CIS countries. Trained and coached by Professor Jacque Theron (Disco gel Therapy founder) since 2008

Over 500 Cervical and 1500 Lumbar successful intra-discal Disco gel injections. Trainer and Certifier of several Neuro and Spine surgeons in the Middle East and CIS countries for Disco gel therapy. Firm believer in patient centric care planning and engagement.