Basivertebral nerve (BVN) ablation is a breakthrough, minimally invasive treatment for patients with chronic vertebrogenic low back pain caused by damaged vertebral endplates (often seen as Modic changes on MRI).
The procedure uses targeted radiofrequency energy to ablate the BVN inside the vertebra, stopping pain signals at the source. Clinical studies show significant, long-lasting improvement in pain and function, even in patients who have struggled with back pain for years.
At Vertrae®, Dr. Kamal Woods and our team are among the few centers in Ohio offering this cutting-edge outpatient solution in a safe, comfortable setting.
Find out if you are a candidate for Basivertebral Nerve Ablation by scheduling a consultation today.
Basivertebral nerve ablation is a minimally invasive treatment for chronic low back pain. It works by targeting the basivertebral nerve (BVN) inside the vertebra, which carries pain signals from damaged endplates. By deactivating this nerve, the procedure relieves pain at its source. At Vertrae® Surgery Center in Dayton, Ohio, our team specializes in this advanced technique.
Most treatments, such as injections, medications, or therapy, provide temporary relief. Basivertebral Nerve Ablation is different because it addresses a specific pain generator inside the spine. It’s a one-time outpatient procedure, and studies show durable pain relief for many patients in Dayton and across Southwest Ohio.
Through a small incision, your surgeon uses fluoroscopic guidance to place a radiofrequency probe into the vertebra. The probe heats the nerve to around 85°C for 15 minutes, safely stopping it from sending pain signals. At Vertrae®, Dr. Kamal Woods performs this procedure in our state-of-the-art outpatient center in Miamisburg, Ohio.
The procedure typically takes about an hour. Patients return home the same day and often resume light activity within a few days. Many of our Dayton-area patients return to normal routines within 1–2 weeks.
You may qualify if you:
At Vertrae®, we screen all Ohio patients carefully to make sure this treatment is the right fit.
Medicare and insurers require at least 3 documented attempts at conservative care. This may include physical therapy, pain medications, chiropractic adjustments, injections, or lifestyle changes. Our team helps gather and document this history for your insurance approval.
Yes. Under Medicare guidelines:
At Vertrae®, we follow these guidelines and tailor your plan to meet both clinical and insurance requirements.
Yes. Medicare (LCD L39642) and many commercial insurers cover Basivertebral Nerve Ablation for eligible patients. Our insurance specialists will confirm your benefits and minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Yes. Medicare covers Basivertebral Nerve Ablation if all criteria are met, including MRI evidence of Modic changes and failure of conservative therapy. Coverage applies to patients in Ohio and nationwide, with limits of 2 levels per session and 4 lifetime.
Multiple clinical trials have shown that Basivertebral Nerve Ablation provides significant and lasting relief from pain and disability. Results have been sustained for up to 5 years after treatment. The safety profile is excellent with most side effects that are minor and temporary, such as incisional soreness or mild flare-ups.
Unlike injections that wear off in weeks, BVN ablation provides durable, long-term relief. Published studies confirm outcomes lasting at least 5 years.
Most patients experience:
If pain persists, we will work with you on other options such as targeted injections, therapy, or minimally invasive surgery. Careful screening in advance helps ensure only patients likely to benefit receive the procedure.
Basivertebral Nerve Ablation is considered very safe. Possible risks include minor incision soreness, temporary worsening of back pain, or (rarely) bleeding or fracture. At Vertrae®, procedures are performed in a specialized outpatient spine surgery center, lowering risks compared to hospital-based care.
The only limitation is that it works specifically for vertebrogenic pain caused by Modic changes. If your pain is from discs, joints, or stenosis, other treatments may be more appropriate. That’s why we perform detailed imaging and evaluation here at Vertrae® before recommending it.
Costs vary, but because Medicare and many private insurers now cover Basivertebral Nerve Ablation, most patients pay only standard deductibles or co-pays. Our staff will verify your insurance coverage before scheduling.
Some soreness at the incision site or a temporary increase in back pain can occur. This usually improves within days. Many patients start to feel real relief within a few weeks as the treated nerve stops transmitting pain signals.
You may not be eligible if you have:
Our Dayton spine specialists will review your MRI and medical history to ensure you’re a safe candidate.
Alternatives include physical therapy, medications, injections, or surgical fusion, but none directly target the BVN.
