Nucleoplasty Specialist In Singapore

Are you experiencing pain in your lower back and leg due to your herniated disc? Speak to us today for an accurate diagnosis and customised treatment plan.

Dr Roy Koh Kiok Miang
Consultant Neurosurgeon
Dr Ng Zhi Xu
Consultant Neurosurgeon

What Is Nucleoplasty?

Nucleoplasty, also known as percutaneous disc decompression, is a minimally invasive procedure designed to alleviate pain caused by herniated discs. The procedure employs radiofrequency energy to decompress the disc, reducing pressure on the nerves and mitigating discomfort.

Common Reasons to Do Nucleoplasty

Nucleoplasty is typically recommended for patients experiencing chronic back or neck pain due to disc herniation. This condition occurs when the soft inner part of the disc protrudes through the tougher outer layer, causing nerve irritation and pain.

The procedure is particularly beneficial for those who have not found relief through conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, or other non-surgical interventions.

Am I Eligible For Nucleoplasty?

Eligibility for nucleoplasty is determined by a healthcare professional based on a patient’s medical history, symptoms, and diagnostic imaging results.

Nucleoplasty Procedure

The nucleoplasty procedure involves the insertion of a needle into the affected disc under X-ray guidance, followed by the application of radiofrequency energy.

  • Needle Insertion: A small needle is inserted into the herniated disc under local anaesthesia and X-ray guidance.
  • Radiofrequency Energy Application: Radiofrequency energy is then applied to decompress the disc and reduce pressure on the nerves.

Risks & Complications

As with any surgical procedure, nucleoplasty carries potential risks and complications, although these are relatively rare due to the minimally invasive nature of the procedure.

  • Infection: Though rare, there is a potential risk of infection at the needle insertion site.
  • Nerve Damage: There is a small risk of nerve damage during the procedure, which could potentially lead to numbness or weakness.

Recovery & Aftercare Guide

Recovery from nucleoplasty is typically swift, with most patients able to return to their normal activities within a few days.

Rest & Pain Management

Patients are advised to rest and manage any residual pain with prescribed medication.

Physical Therapy

A course of physical therapy may be recommended to strengthen the back and prevent future disc problems.

Is Your Herniated Disc Disrupting Your Life?

Consult our MOH-accredited specialist for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.

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Dr Roy Koh Kiok Miang

Consultant Neurosurgeon

Dr Roy Koh has expertise to manage a wide variety of neurosurgical and spinal problems. He was the first Neurosurgical Spine Consultant at KTPH and also performed Singapore’s first minimally invasive removal of a Spinal Tumor.

  • MBBS, National University of Singapore (NUS) in 2000
  • Basic Surgical Training in 2004
  • MRCS (Edin) and Master in Medicine(Surgery) in 2006
  • Neurosurgical Advanced Surgical training in 2008
  • Fellowship with Neurosurgical Department in Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge

Dr Koh has been active in pursuing his love for neurosurgery and spine surgery. He has also been an invited surgeon to places like India and visiting specialist surgeon for the Vietnamese Neurosurgical Congress in 2013, showcasing his new minimally invasive spine techniques to our neighbours.

Dr Koh is an Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, where he is an MBBS examiner, and actively involved in training of the next generation of doctors.

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Dr Ng Zhi Xu

Consultant Neurosurgeon

Dr Ng is a fully registered specialist in Neurosurgery, with sub-specialty interests in neurotrauma, neuro-oncology, and spine surgery.

  • Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore 2007
  • Basic Surgical Training at TTSH and KTPH 2008-2010
  • Basic Neurosurgical training NUH and KTPH 2010-2012 (Service Registrar)
  • Advanced Neurosurgical training and residency NUH 2013 – 2017
  • Fellowship training in Neurosurgery at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom from 2015 – 2016
  • Intercollegiate Fellowship of Royal Colleges of Surgery (FRCSGlasg) for Neurosurgery, 2016

During his term in KTPH, he developed a deep interest in teaching and organized numerous General Practice (GP) and nursing forums to promote the sharing of common neurosurgical conditions. While there, he was also the director for residency teaching in KTPH.

Dr Ng has done research collaborations with both National Neuroscience Institute (NNI) and NUH. He currently has ongoing research grants with NUH, which focuses on developing modified stem cell treatment for resistant brain cancers.

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    Nucleoplasty In Singapore

    Frequently Asked
    Questions

    How long does the nucleoplasty procedure take?

    The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the number of discs being treated.

    Is nucleoplasty painful?

    The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, so patients should not feel pain during the procedure. Some discomfort may be experienced in the days following the procedure, but this can be managed with prescribed medication.

    How soon can I return to work after nucleoplasty?

    Most patients are able to return to work within a few days to a week after the procedure, depending on the nature of their job and their individual recovery rate.

    Will I need to have this procedure again in the future?

    While nucleoplasty can provide significant relief from pain, it does not stop the degenerative process of the spine. Some patients may require additional treatments in the future, depending on their individual circumstances.