If you and your doctor agree that the IDET procedure is right for you, there are certain steps you’ll need to take—according to your doctor’s advice—before having the procedure:

• Make sure the doctor who performs your IDET procedure knows all the prescription and nonprescription drugs that you take on a regular basis.
• In the week before IDET, you should not take any nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)—painkillers such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or acetaminophen. If you’re unsure about whether you are taking NSAIDs, ask your doctor.
• You can continue taking most prescription medications unless your doctor tells you not to.
• Be sure to tell your doctor if you:

• Are taking a blood thinner such as warfarin or coumadin.
• Have a history of bleeding disorder.
• Have any type of drug allergy.

Just prior to the beginning of your IDET procedure, you will receive a light sedative and a local anesthetic.

• You may have mild discomfort during needle and probe positioning and may have your typical back pain during the heating period. This is a good sign, because it confirms the probe is properly placed to deliver heat to the area of disc injury.
• Since you’ll be only lightly sedated, you’ll be able to tell the doctor about your pain during the procedure.

For information about proper self-care after you’ve had the IDET procedure, please visit the following resources:

• Self-care Immediately After the IDET Procedure
• Self-care During the First Month After the IDET Procedure
• Self-care 2-4 Months After the IDET Procedure