Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi performs first minimally invasive spine procedure in Middle East

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has completed the first Intracept™ Basivertebral Nerve (BVN) Ablation Procedure in the Middle East and North Africa region. The hospital is now officially recognized as the first Intracept™ center in the MENA region.

The procedure offers new hope for patients with chronic vertebrogenic low back pain who haven't found relief through conventional treatments like physiotherapy, medications, and injections.

How did it work?

The Intracept™ procedure targets the basivertebral nerve, which carries pain signals from damaged vertebral endplates. Here's how it works:

• Doctors use radiofrequency energy to disrupt pain signals at their source
• The procedure is performed under live X-ray guidance
• It requires only a minimal incision of less than one centimeter
• No open surgery or spinal fusion is needed
• Patients experience rapid recovery with sustained benefits for years

Dr. Reda Tolba, Division Chair of Pain Medicine at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, performed the procedure. He is the first physician in the MENA region trained to do this treatment.

"Intracept™ offers a scientifically proven, targeted solution for vertebrogenic pain," Dr. Tolba said. "We can address the root cause of their pain, providing significant relief."

Why does it matter?

Chronic low back pain affects millions of people worldwide and is one of the most common musculoskeletal conditions. Vertebrogenic pain specifically comes from inflammatory changes in the vertebral bones, particularly at the endplates.

This type of pain gets worse with movements like bending forward or sitting for long periods. Traditional treatments often fall short, leaving patients with limited options.

The new procedure offers several key benefits:

• Significant pain reduction
• Earlier return to daily activities
• Improved physical endurance
• Better quality of life and independence
• Long-term functional recovery
• Improved emotional wellbeing

The context

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi continues to expand its advanced treatment options for patients across the region. The hospital is located on Al Maryah Island and includes 405 beds, 26 operating rooms, and specialized institutes.

"Introducing the Intracept™ Procedure reflects our continued commitment to innovation that drives meaningful outcomes for our patients," said Dr. Georges-Pascal Haber, Chief Executive Officer at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi.

The hospital is designated by the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi as a Centre of Excellence for adult cardiac surgery, stroke, and adult multi-organ transplantation. It's also the first in the UAE to earn accreditation from both ACGME-I and ACCME for its medical training programs.