Intradiscal electrothermal therapy - A treatment option in patients with internal disc disruption

Study Design. A literature review was conducted. Objectives. To review the anatomy, pathophysiology, diagnosis, procedure, and clinical results of intradiscal electrothermal therapy (IDET). Summary of Background Data. Low back pain is a major physical and socioeconomic entity. A significant percentage of low back pain is attributable to internal disc disruption. The management of internal disc disruption has traditionally been limited to either conservative treatment or spinal fusion. IDET has been performed as an alternative to these therapies. Methods. The available literature was reviewed. Results. Scientific data regarding the pathophysiology, biologic effects, and clinical results are relatively scarce. Early biomechanical and histologic investigations into the effects of IDET are conflicting. However, in early prospective human trials, IDET seems to provide some benefit with little risk. Conclusions. IDET is potentially beneficial treatment for internal disc disruption in carefully selected patients as an alternative to spinal fusion. More basic science and clinical research with long-term follow-up evaluation is necessary.