Column Treatment Case Report No. 37｜ ILC International Lumbago Clinic (Tokyo Clinic)
January 6, 2023
The patient
A female patient in her 40s.
The patient’s medical history to date
- The patient has experienced recurrent acute low back pain (“lumbago”) since her 20s.
- She felt low back pain in November 2022, and sought medical help as it failed to improve.
- Using a 10-point pain scale (1 = minimum, 10 = maximum):
- Low back pain: 4
- Other symptoms: None
- She is able to walk more than 500 meters.
- Long periods of sitting and lifting heavy items are manageable, but turning over in bed, standing up, washing her face, and maintaining a forward-bending posture are somewhat difficult.
Imaging and findings
- L4/5: Lumbar disc herniation
- L3/4: Mild disc degeneration
Treatment
The Cellgel Method was performed at L3/4 and L4/5.
Although degeneration at L3/4 was mild, treatment was also performed preventively after discussion with the patient.
The image above shows the disc after the Discogel injection.
The treatment was completed in approximately 25 minutes.
After resting in the recovery room, the patient walked out of the clinic unassisted
The Cellgel Method is particularly effective for patients who experience frequent episodes of acute low back pain.
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
