Column Treatment Case Report (International Patient) CASE No.249 (Osaka Clinic)
June 26, 2026
The patient
A female patient in her 30s (from Australia)
The patient’s medical history to date
This patient symptoms began approximately three years ago. She had previously undergone radiofrequency nerve ablation, but her pain persisted despite the procedure.
Her symptoms became significantly worse when standing up, transitioning from sitting to standing, and bending forward. She used to be an active basketball player, but the pain had gradually progressed to the point where it severely affected her daily activities.
Seeking further improvement, she traveled to Japan and visited the ILC International Lumbago Clinic.
Pre-treatment symptoms
The patient’s symptoms were predominantly on the right side.
Impact on Daily Activities
- Turning over in bed: Slightly difficult
- Standing up from a seated position: Extremely difficult
- Washing face: Easy
- Maintaining a semi-crouching or standing posture: Extremely difficult
- Sitting for extended periods: Extremely difficult
- Lifting or carrying heavy objects: Extremely difficult
・Pain levels before treatment
| Lower back | Lower limbs | Numbness | Buttocks | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pain level | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 |
No pain at all is rated as 0, and the maximum possible pain is rated as 10.
Main area of pain and numbness: lower back.
Imaging and Findings
MRI and clinical examination revealed:
- L4/5 and L5/S1: Degenerative disc disease with disc bulging
- L4: Isthmic spondylolisthesis (pars defect with vertebral slippage)
The above findings were also observed on the imaging.
These findings suggested that compression of the spinal canal caused by the degenerative discs at L4/5 and L5/S1 was the most likely source of her symptoms.
Treatment
After discussing the available treatment options with the patient, the Cellgel Procedure was performed at:
- L4/5
- L5/S1
The procedure was performed by Dr. Kotera, the administrative director of the Osaka Clinic.
The treatment was completed in approximately 25 minutes.
Following a short recovery period in the recovery room, the patient was able to walk out of the clinic independently.
Our Clinics’ Treatment
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
