Nucleoplasty (also known as percutaneous disc decompression) is a minimally invasive procedure commonly used to treat contained disc herniations. A needle is inserted into the affected intervertebral disc and a small amount of disc material is removed. This reduces pressure within the disc, thereby relieving compression on the surrounding nerves.
For patients exploring nucleoplasty for a herniated disc, it offers a less invasive alternative to traditional open spine surgery, with shorter recovery times and less disruption to surrounding tissue.
How Is Nucleoplasty Performed?
The procedure is carried out in an operating theatre under local anaesthesia and sedation. You will be asked to lie face down while a needle is inserted under image guidance, most commonly using X-rays, until the tip reaches the centre of the problematic disc. A small amount of disc material is then removed using techniques such as coblation or laser.
Because only a small needle is used, there is no need for large incisions or stitches. The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, and most patients are discharged on the same day. Nucleoplasty in Singapore is performed as a day procedure at most specialist pain clinics.
Who Can Benefit from Nucleoplasty?
Nucleoplasty may be recommended for patients who:
- Have a contained (non-ruptured) disc herniation
- Experience back pain radiating to the leg
- Have symptoms that persist despite conservative treatment
- Are looking for an alternative to open spine surgery
It is generally unsuitable for patients who:
- Have severe spinal instability
- Have advanced disc degeneration
- Have a significant narrowing of the spinal canal (spinal stenosis)
Your specialist will assess your condition through imaging and a thorough clinical evaluation to determine whether nucleoplasty is the right option for you.
Recovery After Nucleoplasty
After the procedure, you may experience some discomfort at the treatment site. This is usually well tolerated and can be managed with simple pain relief such as paracetamol and NSAIDs. Most patients can return to daily activities within a few days, though strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided during the initial recovery period.
Full recovery varies depending on individual condition and commitment to post-procedure rehabilitation. Your specialist may recommend a structured physiotherapy programme to strengthen the surrounding muscles and support long-term spinal health. When combined with lifestyle modifications, nucleoplasty can provide lasting relief from disc-related pain.
Patients at a pain management clinic often see the best results when the procedure is part of a broader treatment plan tailored to their needs.
Is Nucleoplasty Right for You?
If you are living with persistent disc pain and conservative treatments have not provided enough relief, nucleoplasty may be worth considering. The cost of nucleoplasty in Singapore varies depending on factors such as the complexity of your condition and the number of discs treated, so it is best to discuss this directly with your specialist.
Dr Christopher Liu is a pain specialist at Alleviate Pain Clinic who performs nucleoplasty surgery in Singapore for patients with contained disc herniations. He takes a personalised approach to treatment, ensuring each patient receives an accurate diagnosis and a tailored recovery plan. Do not let disc pain hold you back. Book your consultation today.
