Treating back pain with percutaneous laser disc decompression

Written in association with: Mr Irfan Malik
Published:
Edited by: Lisa Heffernan

Back pain, one of the leading causes of disability worldwide, especially lower back pain and sciatica can be caused by a herniated disc. A herniated disc is where a disc in the spinal disc puts pressure on the nerves causing pain in the back and down along the leg.

Mr Malik, one of the UK’s leading minimally invasive spinal surgeons and member of the London Neurosurgery Partnership who introduced endoscopic spine surgery to the UK, talks about percutaneous laser disc decompression (PLDD), a fairly new technique to treat back pain, in particular, sciatica.

A woman standing in front of a pond with her back to the camera.

What is PLDD?

PLDD is a minimally invasive procedure whereby a micro needle is inserted into the nucleus (centre) of the disc, using X-ray guidance. A thin fibre is inserted through the needle into the disc to deliver laser energy to the centre of the disc. The thermal energy of the laser heats the disc, excess water evaporates and the disc shrinks in size, releasing the pressure caused by the disc leaning on the nerve. The pressure reduction then results in pain reduction.

What can PLDD be used to treat?

Percutaneous laser disc decompression is mostly used to treat the following:

  • Sciatica and lower back pain
  • Refractory back pain
  • Annular tear
  • Disc that is causing compression on the root of a nerve
  • Used when conservative treatments like pain management and physio fail to treat the pain

What are the benefits of PLDD?

Other than treating back pain, PLDD is performed under local anaesthetic, which means you don’t have to be put to sleep. Rehabilitation is very quick and patients can go home the same day as the procedure.

The procedure is also minimally invasive, so it doesn’t require any large incisions or disruption to muscles, as in the case of open spine surgery. This also means that there will be no epidural scarring, as the procedure avoids major open surgery.

 

If back pain is something you or someone you know is struggling with, get in touch with Mr Malik for a full consultation.

By Mr Irfan Malik
Neurosurgery

Mr Irfan Malik is a leading consultant spinal surgeon in London. He is an expert in the full spectrum of spinal pathologies such as spinal traumas and fractures, sports injuries of the spine, tumours and cancers, and degenerative spinal conditions including herniated discs, sciatica, and spinal stenosis. He practices at several prominent HCA clinics across the city.

Mr Malik is renowned for his capabilities in endoscopic procedures, minimally invasive spinal surgery and robotic-assisted spine procedures. He integrates the latest, cutting-edge technologies into his daily practice to ensure maximum precision, safe procedures, optimal outcomes, and faster recovery for his patients. In addition, he provides a comprehensive service for the treatment of epilepsy. Mr Malik utilises his rich experience in spinal conditions for both surgical and non-surgical treatments. He is particularly adept at incorporating minimally invasive techniques for surgery, such as disk replacement, sciatica, and treatments for neck pain, back pain, and arm pain. Mr Malik has performed the highest number of endoscopic spinal surgeries in the UK, truly establishing him as one of the nation’s top doctors.
 
With an esteemed career that spans decades, Mr Malik is widely respected as one of the leaders of spine and neurosurgery, a field to which he has contributed greatly. He is an active researcher and innovator, contributing to the evolution of spine surgery and has provided breakthrough treatments for the most complex of spinal cases. He is a frequent keynote speaker for major international conferences and symposia, providing insights and facilitating global collaboration for the advancement of spinal care.
 
Mr Malik is a passionate advocate for raising global standards in spinal surgery, and is committed to training and mentoring the next generation of spinal surgeons. As an educator, he leads workshops and masterclasses focused on advanced minimally invasive and robotic techniques. Mr Malik has trained surgeons from around the world, with the hope that his innovations and techniques can improve the quality of life for patients from anywhere. His practice is founded on compassionate, holistic, and tailored care for each unique patient’s needs and goals.

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