Authors' objectives:

This study aims to assess the current evidence on percutaneous disc decompression using coblation for lower back pain.

Authors' recommendations: 1 Guidance 1.1 Current evidence suggests that there are no major safety concerns associated with the use of percutaneous disc decompression using coblation for lower back pain. There is some evidence of short-term efficacy; however, this is not sufficient to support the use of this procedure without special arrangements for consent and for audit or research. 1.2 Clinicians wishing to undertake percutaneous disc decompression using coblation for lower back pain should take the following actions. - Inform the clinical governance leads in their Trusts. - Ensure that patients understand the uncertainty about the procedure's efficacy and provide them with clear written information. Use of the Institute's Information for the public is recommended (available from www.nice.org.uk/IPG173publicinfo). - Audit and review clinical outcomes of all patients having percutaneous disc decompression using coblation for lower back pain. 1.3 Further research will be useful in reducing the current uncertainty, and clinicians are encouraged to collect long-term follow-up data. The Institute may review the procedure upon publication of further evidence.

Authors' methods: Overview

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: http://www.nice.org.uk/page.aspx?o=IP_235

Year Published: 2006

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: England

Organisation Name: National Institute for Health and Care Excellence

Contact Address: Level 1A, City Tower, Piccadilly Plaza, Manchester, M1 4BT

Contact Name: nice@nice.nhs.uk

Contact Email: nice@nice.nhs.uk

Copyright: National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE)