Ozone discectomy, also known as ozone therapy or ozone nucleolysis, is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat herniated discs in the spine. It involves the injection of medical-grade ozone gas into the affected disc to reduce inflammation, shrink the herniation, and alleviate pressure on the nerves. Here's a closer look at the procedure: Preparation: Before the procedure, the patient typically undergoes a physical examination and imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans to confirm the diagnosis of a herniated disc and assess its location and severity. Procedure Setup: The patient lies on their stomach or back on an examination table, and the skin over the treatment area is cleaned and sterilized. Local anesthesia may be administered to numb the skin and tissues around the injection site. Injection: Using fluoroscopic guidance (live X-ray imaging) to ensure precision, a needle is inserted into the center of the herniated disc. Once the needle is properly positioned, medical-grade ozone gas is injected into the disc. Ozone Treatment: Ozone gas has several therapeutic effects when injected into the disc: It reduces inflammation by suppressing the release of inflammatory mediators. It breaks down the proteins in the herniated disc material, reducing its size. It increases the oxygen supply to the disc, promoting healing and regeneration. Post-procedure: After the ozone injection, the patient is typically monitored for a short period to ensure there are no immediate complications. Some patients may experience temporary soreness or discomfort at the injection site. Recovery: Patients can usually resume their normal activities within a day or two following the procedure. Pain relief may be immediate for some patients, while others may experience gradual improvement over the following days or weeks as the inflammation subsides and the disc heals. Ozone discectomy is considered a safe and effective alternative to traditional surgical procedures such as open discectomy for treating herniated discs. It is associated with fewer risks and complications, shorter recovery times, and no risk of spinal instability. However, like any medical procedure, it carries some risks, including infection, nerve damage, or allergic reactions to the ozone gas. It's important for patients considering ozone discectomy to discuss the potential benefits and risks with their healthcare provider and to ensure that they are a suitable candidate for the procedure based on their individual condition and medical history.