Breaking New Ground: The World’s First Neuro-Navigated Basivertebral Nerve Ablation at Epworth Richmond

In July 2024, a historic medical milestone was achieved at Epworth Richmond Hospital in Melbourne, Australia. Under the pioneering expertise of Mr. Yagnesh Vellore, one of the very few spine surgeons across Australasia offering this technique, the world’s first-ever neuro-navigated basivertebral nerve ablation for lumbar spine pain was performed.

What Is Basivertebral Nerve Ablation?

Basivertebral nerve ablation is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic lower back pain that originates from the vertebral endplates. The basivertebral nerve transmits pain signals from these endplates, and by using radiofrequency energy to ablate this nerve, pain relief can be achieved.

Indications and Outcomes

The procedure is indicated for patients with confirmed discogenic back pain linked to Modic type I or type II changes seen on MRI. In other words, it’s typically recommended for individuals whose chronic lower back pain is due to vertebrogenic changes at the endplates of their lumbar vertebrae.

Outcomes have shown that patients often experience significant pain relief within 4 to 6 weeks post-procedure. Although the nerve may eventually regenerate over time, the ablation can be repeated, offering a long-term minimally invasive solution.

A World-First Innovation

This particular procedure at Epworth Richmond was the first in the world to utilize advanced neuro-navigation for basivertebral nerve ablation.

Continued: A World-First Innovation

What sets this groundbreaking procedure apart is the use of neuro-navigation technology. This technology allows for unprecedented precision, guiding the surgeon in real time to target the basivertebral nerve with remarkable accuracy. This innovation means safer procedures, faster recovery times, and even more effective pain relief for patients.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Spine Care in Australasia

As one of the very few spine surgeons offering this procedure in the region, Mr. Yagnesh Vellore is truly at the forefront of spine care innovation in Australasia. This milestone not only marks a leap forward in patient outcomes but also opens the door for more advanced interventions in the years to come.