How is IDET performed?

IDET, which stands for Intradiscal Electrothermal Therapy, is a minimally invasive procedure used primarily to treat chronic lower back pain caused by a damaged disc. The reason it is performed in an outpatient setting with local anesthesia is due to the nature of the procedure, which focuses on targeting particular disc areas without the need for extensive surgical intervention.

Using local anesthesia allows patients to remain awake and alert during the procedure while minimizing discomfort. This is advantageous as it can lead to quicker recovery times and the capacity for the patient to go home shortly after the procedure. Outpatient procedures typically aim to ensure patient comfort and efficiency while delivering effective treatments.

In contrast, other anesthesia options like general anesthesia or sedation would increase potential risks and require longer recovery times and hospital stays, making them less suitable for a procedure like IDET that is designed to be quick and efficient.