26/07/2025
New procedure for Chrinic lower back pain
The Trust is proud to announce that it has become the first in Europe to carry out a new treatment called the Intracept™ procedure at Stoke Mandeville Hospital. This is a minimally invasive treatment option for patients with chronic vertebrogenic low back pain.
The procedure was carried out by Dr David McKean, Clinical Lead for Radiology at the Trust, and his team earlier this month. It works by gently heating a small nerve inside the spine called the basivertebral nerve. This nerve sends pain signals to the brain when the spine is damaged. By stopping the nerve from sending these signals, the treatment helps reduce pain.
Lauren, a 33-year-old mother of 2, had struggled with severe low back pain for many years which at times had left her bedridden. She tolerated the basivertebral nerve ablation procedure very well and was delighted that her back pain was improved within days of her procedure and she was able to stop taking op**te medication for the first time in many years.
Lauren said: “My back pain is already significantly better, and I am looking forward to being able to look after my young children without being limited by low back pain”.
Dr McKean said: “Our priority is delivering safe and highly effective treatments that truly transform our patients’ lives. Intracept™ stands out as the only procedure uniquely engineered to target vertebrogenic pain, a condition often overlooked in traditional back pain therapies. Backed by robust clinical evidence and long-term patient outcomes, this minimally invasive option offers sustained relief and improved function for those suffering from chronic low back pain. It marks a significant step forward in personalised pain management.”
Andrew McLaren, Chief Medical Officer at the Trust, said: “Being chosen to carry out the first Intracept™ procedure in Europe is a remarkable achievement and a reflection of the expertise and commitment of our Radiology team. It highlights our Trust’s dedication to leading the way in delivering innovative and outstanding care to our patients in Buckinghamshire.”
Basivertebral nerve ablation does not treat all forms of back pain and is specifically indicated for chronic vertebrogenic pain which has not responded to non-surgical treatments. Patients should discuss with their clinical team as to whether this treatment may be suitable for them.
Read the full article on our website
➡️ www.buckshealthcare.nhs.uk/blog/2025/07/24/trust-radiology-team-completes-first-intracept-procedure-for-chronic-low-back-pain-relief-in-europe/
Boston Scientific
NHS Buckinghamshire
NHS England