Disco Gel Injection

Discogel injection is a cutting-edge therapeutic approach employed in the management of disc protrusion disorders, and it has emerged as a popular non-surgical option for disc treatment. This method involves the use of ethyl alcohol, an alcohol-based compound, which is skillfully injected into the intervertebral disk, leading to significant molecular alterations within the disk.

Discogel, in its gel form, is a safe and advanced substance composed of alcohol-cellulose and tungsten compounds. Following injection, it assumes a cottony texture and slightly hardens within the disk space. Previously, liquid alcohol was used, but it posed the risk of leakage into the spinal cord's nerve tissues. In contrast, Discogel, presented in gel form, mitigates such risks.

This innovative approach is particularly considered for individuals experiencing disc herniation, serving as a minimally invasive alternative for those unsuitable for conventional treatment options like medication or surgery.

In Discogel injection, the lumbar disc doctor administers the gel substance, comprising ethanol and cellulose, directly into the protruding intervertebral disc. This technique can be employed to treat disc protrusions at various levels of the spine, including cervical, thoracic, and lumbar regions.

Utilizing local anesthesia, Discogel injection is a well-tolerated procedure performed through the skin. The ethanol present in Discogel initiates structural changes within the intervertebral disc, resulting in enhanced disc consistency, water redistribution towards the core, alleviation of herniation, pressure reduction on adjacent nerves, and effective relief from back pain.

In addition to its therapeutic benefits, Discogel injection offers several advantages. It does not necessitate general anesthesia, intubation, or urinary catheterization, thus minimizing potential complications related to these measures. Patients typically receive mild sedation for relaxation during the procedure, and local anesthesia is employed to numb the injection site.

Post-injection, patients can often be discharged on the same day, eliminating the need for hospitalization.

During the procedure, the patient is positioned lying on their stomach. Following anesthesia of the injection site, the doctor carefully inserts the needle into the intervertebral disc's medial and posterior parts, administering Discogel slowly over 30 seconds (0.1 ml). The volume of Discogel injected depends on the disc space's extent and its capacity to accommodate the gel, typically ranging between 0.5-0.8 ml. The needle remains in place for 2 minutes after injection to minimize the risk of post-injection leakage. Tungsten in Discogel facilitates monitoring via X-rays during the injection process.

Discogel injections are typically targeted at the most prominent region of the disc. The gel subsequently reduces the protrusion by absorbing disc water from the surrounding environment.

Post-procedure, patients are usually discharged on the same day. The physician provides instructions for post-injection care, and improvement in pain and symptoms is typically observed between 3 to 6 weeks post-injection. In comparison, conventional disc surgery may require approximately 3 months for similar results. Patients are generally advised to wait between three to six weeks before resuming sports activities and engaging in heavy movements.

Discogel injection is a valuable treatment option for spinal diseases, especially for herniated discs. Discogel's unique properties and effects on the disc make it effective in alleviating the pressure caused by herniation, contributing to significant pain relief.

Herniated discs, often resulting from age-related wear and tear, are a prevalent cause of back pain, particularly in older individuals. These discs can exert pressure on the adjacent nerves in the spinal canal, leading to discomfort and related symptoms.

The majority of herniated discs occur at the level of the last lumbar vertebrae (L4 and L5). Age-related reduction in disc flexibility and resistance increases the likelihood of disc rupture. Although the exact cause of disc protrusion may remain unidentified in many cases, activities involving improper back muscle usage during heavy lifting can contribute to this condition.

Regardless of the cause, Discogel injection serves as a viable treatment approach for herniated discs, presenting a novel, safe, and effective solution for those seeking non-surgical alternatives to manage their condition.