Column Treatment Case Report No. 33｜ ILC International Lumbago Clinic (Tokyo Clinic)

December 16, 2022

The patient

A female patient in her 30s.

The patient’s medical history to date

• The patient was diagnosed with lumbar disc herniation 10 years ago, and symptoms improved after a nerve root block.

• Eight years ago, she experienced a recurrence and recovered with an epidural block.

• In October 2022, low back pain recurred.

• On a scale of 1 to 10 (1 = minimum pain / 10 = maximum pain), pain levels were:
• Lower back: 6
• Lower limb: 10
• Buttocks: 10
• Numbness: 10

• She is able to walk more than 500 meters.

• Standing up is relatively easy, but prolonged sitting and lifting heavy objects are extremely difficult.
  Daily activities such as turning over in bed, washing her face, and semi-crouched postures are also significantly impaired.

Imaging and findings

• Disc herniation was observed at three levels: L3/4, L4/5, and L5/S.

Treatment

The Cellgel Method was performed on L3/4, L4/5, and L5/S.

The images below show the discs after the Discogel injection.

The procedure was completed in approximately 40 minutes.

Because the patient felt anxious about the treatment, her husband accompanied her during the procedure.

Following a short rest in the recovery room, she was able to walk home without assistance.

Our clinic’s treatment method

Additional information about the Cellgel method we have introduced in this column.

Cost of the Cellgel method: 1,320,000 yen per area (including tax) to 1,760,000 yen per 5 areas (including tax)

Risks and side effects of the Cellgel method: Transient pain may occur after treatment. Nerve damage is not a zero possibility due to the very nature of the treatment, but there have been no reports of damage so far in either report cases or publications. There is a very small possibility of allergic reactions to local anesthetics. Symptoms may temporarily worsen during the first week or two after treatment. This is believed to be due to the decompression effect of the implant, which retracts the surrounding tissues. In addition, if the disc is almost completely collapsed, treatment may be difficult. The doctor hold a consultation with you during your visit to the clinic to determine the best treatment option for your condition.

For more detailed information, please refer to the following links:

Blog page explaining the Cellgel Method in an easy-to-understand manner
The Cellgel Method on our treatment methods page

This article was written by the Administrative Director of our clinic