Are you put to sleep for the Intracept procedure?
You are not put to sleep for the Intracept procedure. Instead, you will receive sedation through an intravenous (IV) line prior to the procedure. This sedation is designed to help you relax and minimize any discomfort or anxiety you may have during the procedure.
When you arrive at the facility or hospital for the Intracept procedure, a nurse will greet you and bring you into the procedure room. You will be asked to change into a hospital gown and lie down on a special table. The table is designed to allow the physician easy access to your spine during the procedure.
Once you are comfortable on the table, the nurse will insert an IV line into your arm or hand. This allows the sedation medication to be administered directly into your bloodstream. The sedation used for the Intracept procedure is typically a combination of medications to help you achieve a relaxed and sleepy state.
It’s important to note that the level of sedation may vary depending on your specific needs and the preferences of your healthcare team. Some individuals may require a lighter level of sedation, while others may need a deeper level of sedation to ensure their comfort during the procedure.
The sedation medication will be administered slowly, allowing it to take effect gradually. As the medication begins to work, you may start to feel drowsy and relaxed. It is not uncommon to experience a sense of calmness or even doze off during the procedure.
Throughout the procedure, you will be monitored closely by the healthcare team. This includes monitoring your vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. The nurse or anesthesiologist will be present to adjust the level of sedation if needed, ensuring your comfort and safety throughout the procedure.
While you will not be fully asleep during the Intracept procedure, the sedation provided aims to make you as comfortable as possible. It is normal to have some memory gaps or not remember the details of the procedure afterward due to the sedation.
For the Intracept procedure, you will receive sedation through an IV line to help you relax and minimize discomfort. The sedation aims to make you drowsy and relaxed during the procedure, but you will not be fully asleep. Your healthcare team will closely monitor you throughout the procedure to ensure your comfort and safety.