Method of reducing pressure in a nucleus pulposus

摘要

A method for reducing intervertebral pressure is provided. The method includes providing an electrode and a generator. The electrode includes a proximal end and a distal end. The generator is operatively connected to the proximal end of the electrode and is configured to supply radiofrequency current thereto. The method also includes inserting at least a portion of the distal end of the electrode into the nucleus pulposus of an intervertebral disc and activating the generator to heat the nucleus pulposus. The intervertebral disc has a first lateral side and a second lateral side. The nucleus pulposus has a major axis and a minor axis. The electrode may be inserted into the intervertebral disc through its first lateral side and/or its second lateral side and may be substantially parallel to the major or minor axis of the nucleus pulposus.