If you may need a Barricaid Procedure, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.
What is a Barricaid Procedure?
The Barricaid procedure uses a small implant designed to repair and reinforce a damaged spinal disc after a neurosurgeon removes herniated disc material. The implant covers the opening in the outer layer of the disc, called the annulus, and helps prevent the inner disc material from escaping through the weakened area. The procedure focuses on preserving the remaining healthy disc tissue while supporting the spine’s natural structure.
During the procedure, a neurosurgeon creates a small incision in the lower back and carefully accesses the affected spinal disc. The neurosurgeon removes the portion of the herniated disc that presses against nearby nerves, then places the Barricaid implant over the opening in the disc wall. The implant anchors into the surrounding bone and provides a barrier that helps maintain disc stability. After completing the repair, the neurosurgeon closes the incision, and the patient begins a recovery process focused on protecting the spine, restoring movement, and gradually returning to normal activities.
Who May Benefit from a Barricaid Procedure?
The Barricaid procedure may benefit people with certain lumbar disc herniations who face a higher risk of another disc herniation after traditional discectomy surgery. Neurosurgeons often consider this treatment for patients who experience ongoing back or leg pain caused by a damaged spinal disc and who meet specific criteria based on their disc condition and overall health.
Barricaid Procedure May Benefit Those Experiencing:
- Lumbar disc herniation causing nerve pain or related symptoms
- A large opening in the disc wall after disc removal surgery
- A higher risk of repeat disc herniation
- Limited relief from non-surgical treatments
- A need for a treatment option that helps preserve remaining disc structure
Advantages of the Barricaid Procedure
The Barricaid procedure offers a treatment option for eligible patients with lumbar disc herniations by reinforcing the damaged disc wall and supporting spinal stability.
Advantages may include:
- Helps reduce the risk of repeat disc herniation
- Preserves more of the natural disc structure
- Uses a minimally invasive surgical approach
- Helps protect the spinal disc after herniated material removal
- May reduce recurring back or leg pain caused by disc problems
- Supports a faster return to daily activities for some patients
Recovery from the Barricaid Procedure
Recovery from the Barricaid procedure involves a gradual return to normal activities while the spine heals and regains strength. Patients often begin walking soon after surgery and follow their neurosurgeon’s guidance for movement, lifting, and exercise. Physical therapy may help improve flexibility, strengthen supporting muscles, and restore mobility. Follow-up visits allow specialists to monitor healing and adjust activity levels. Many patients gradually return to work and daily routines as their symptoms improve and the repaired disc gains stability.
