Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi completes first Intracept™ spine procedure in the Middle East

UAE—Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has completed the first Intracept™ Basivertebral Nerve (BVN) Ablation Procedure in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, becoming the first officially recognized Intracept™ center in the area.

The milestone positions the hospital at the forefront of pain management innovation and expands access to advanced, evidence-based treatment for patients across the region.

Dr. Georges-Pascal Haber, Chief Executive Officer at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, described the procedure as a reflection of the hospital’s ongoing commitment to integrating cutting-edge solutions that produce meaningful outcomes.

“By embedding advanced, evidence-based solutions into our care model, we ensure that patients in the region benefit from the latest and most effective treatments,” he said.

Understanding vertebrogenic pain

Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is one of the most widespread musculoskeletal conditions globally.

A significant portion of CLBP cases stem from vertebrogenic pain — a condition caused by inflammatory changes in the vertebral bones, particularly at the endplates.

This type of pain intensifies with movements such as bending forward or sitting for extended periods and often persists despite physiotherapy, medications, and injections.

How the Intracept™ procedure works

The Intracept™ procedure targets the basivertebral nerve, which carries pain signals from damaged vertebral endplates.

Using radiofrequency energy delivered under live X-ray guidance, physicians disrupt these pain signals at their source through an incision of less than one centimeter with no open surgery or spinal fusion required.

Patients typically experience a rapid recovery, significant pain reduction, and sustained improvement in their ability to perform daily activities.

Dr. Reda Tolba, Division Chair of Pain Medicine at the Neurological Institute and the first physician in the MENA region trained to perform the procedure, highlighted its transformative potential.

“Intracept™ offers a scientifically proven, targeted solution for vertebrogenic pain. We can now address the root cause of the pain rather than simply managing symptoms, which provides patients with meaningful, long-term relief,” he said.

Broader benefits for patients

Beyond pain reduction, the procedure supports earlier return to daily activities, improves physical endurance, and helps patients regain independence.

These outcomes contribute to long-term functional recovery, improved emotional well-being, and greater confidence in managing everyday life.

The introduction of the Intracept™ Procedure further strengthens the Neurological Institute at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s standing as a destination for advanced, patient-centered neurological care, bringing world-class treatment options closer to patients across the region.