The Intracept Procedure and You

• The Intracept Access Instruments and the Intracept RF Probe are single patient use only. The Introducer Cannula, Diamond Stylet, Bevel Stylet, J-Stylet, Straight Stylet, Drill, and Probe may be used to treat up to a maximum of four (4) vertebrae (L3, L4, L5, S1) on a single patient, while the Curved Cannula may only be used on one (1) vertebra on a single patient.
• As with any surgical instrument, careful attention must be exercised to ensure that excessive force is not placed on the Instruments or Probe. Excessive force can result in product failure.
• Prior to the procedure, CT or MRI imaging must be utilized to help define the desired treatment site and define working anatomical landmarks that can be used for mapping access to the treatment site.
• The device should be manipulated only while under fluoroscopic or CT observation.
• DO NOT use this device in the presence of flammable anesthetics, other flammable gases or objects, near flammable fluids such as skin prepping agents and tinctures, or oxidizing agents. Observe appropriate fire precautions at all times. There is a risk of pooling of flammable solutions under the patient or in body depressions and cavities.
• Fluids pooled in the body depressions and cavities of the patient should be mopped up before RFG is used.
• There is a danger of ignition of endogenous gases (e.g., cotton and gauze saturated with oxygen may be ignited by sparks produced during normal use of the RFG).
• Operator may choose to use smoke-plume extraction apparatus, though the indicated procedure is unlikely to produce noticeable smoke
• The Probe is for use WITHOUT a neutral electrode (ie., a grounding pad).
• Discontinue use if inaccurate, erratic or sluggish temperature readings are observed. Use of damaged equipment may cause patient injury.
• Prior to operation, visually inspect the Probe and RF for physical damage, obvious cracks in insulation or loose parts.
• During power delivery, the cable should not come in direct contact with the patient's skin or other patient leads.
• Safety and effectiveness in patients with conditions that are associated with poor bone quality such as osteoporosis have not been established.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Use of the Intracept Intraosseous Nerve Ablation System is contraindicated in:

• Patients with severe cardiac or pulmonary compromise
• Patients with active implantable pulse generators (e.g. pacemakers, defibrillators)
• Patients where the targeted ablation zone is < 10 mm away from a sensitive structure not intended to be ablated, including the vertebral foramen (spinal canal)
• Patients with active systemic infection or local infection in the area to be treated
• Patients who are pregnant
• Skeletally immature patients (generally ≤ 18 years of age)

WARNINGS

• Do not use if package is opened or damaged as product integrity and/or sterility may be compromised.
• Do not use after the expiration date has passed as product integrity and/or sterility may be compromised.
• Do not re-sterilize or reuse. Re-sterilization or reuse may result in cross contamination, patient infection, or device malfunction.
• Reconditioning, refurbishing, repair or modification of the device to enable further use is prohibited.
• Do not use this product if you have not been properly trained in its use. Physicians using the device should be familiar with the physiology and pathology of the selected anatomy to be treated and be trained in the performance of the chosen surgical technique. Improper surgical use and technique may lead to suboptimal clinical outcomes.
• Read and understand the Instructions For Use ("IFU*) completely prior to use.
• The Intracept System must be used with the Relievant Medsystems RF Generator in order to provide the required treatment parameters.
• Failure of the RFG could result in an unintended increase of output power to the Probe.
• The Intracept RF Probe may interfere and adversely influence the operation of other electronic equipment.