Column Treatment Case Report No. 35| ILC International Lumbago Clinic (Tokyo Clinic)
December 24, 2022
The patient
A male patient in his 60s.
The patient’s medical history to date
- The patient was diagnosed with disc herniation in his 40s and experienced numbness in his left lower limb.
- 2005: Underwent PLDD (Percutaneous Laser Disc Decompression) at L4/5, which resulted in symptom improvement.
- In September 2022, pain reappeared in the left leg, and he was diagnosed again with L4/5 disc herniation.
- Pre-Treatment Pain Level (0=Min, 10=Max): lower back at 3, lower limb at 5; no significant buttock pain or numbness.
- He is capable of walking more than 500 meters.
- Daily activities are largely manageable, although prolonged sitting causes some difficulty.
Imaging and findings

- Disc herniation was observed at L4/5 and L5/S.
Treatment
The Cellgel Method was performed on L4/5 and L5/S.

The image above shows the discs after the Discogel injection.
The treatment was completed in approximately 20 minutes.
After resting in the recovery room, the patient was able to walk home without assistance
Discogel is a very good treatment option for patients suffering from recurrent disc herniation.
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