The Stryker Corporation has unveiled a new medical instrument designed to get to the bottom of disc herniation pain. Herniated discs occur when a disc degenerates, and the core of the spinal disc begins to protrude into the spinal column behind it. The spinal column is filled with nerve tissue, so pressure in this area can be incredibly painful. The pain, because it originates in the nerves, involves not just the area most immediately affected, but also radiates outwards from the source, often spreading to the legs or even the feet. Sometimes, pain from a herniated disc is accompanied by loss of sensation, reflexes, and strength in the buttocks, legs, or feet.
If the protrusion of degenerating discs can be corrected or removed, then pain can usually be alleviated.
The Stryker DEKOMPRESSOR® Percutaneous Discectomy Probe is a specialized instrument that can be used with x-ray imaging while patients are under local anesthesia and mild sedation.
The DEKOMPRESSOR consists of a drill-like probe that feeds into a collection chamber. It can be used to remove material from damaged spinal discs, stopping the irritation of nearby nerves and the associated nerve pain.
Innovators at Stryker Corporation note that the DEKOMPRESSOR is not recommended for use in patients with traumatic spinal fracture, infection, tumor, certain severe diseases, or during pregnancy; also, complications can include nerve pain and damage, damage to the spinal cord including paralysis and, in rare cases, death. However, the device represents a hopeful step towards recovery for patients who have not been helped by conservative treatments.
