After being deemed a candidate, on procedure day Dr. Pecherek will perform an Annulagram. The Annulargram is a painless and vital diagnostic tool in the DISCSEEL® Procedure, designed to detect even the most subtle tears in spinal discs—tears that may be missed by traditional MRI or discography. During the Annulargram, every disc in the affected area is carefully evaluated to identify both current and potential sources of pain. This test helps pinpoint damaged spinal discs, allowing for precise treatment with Fibrin, while leaving healthy discs untouched.

By identifying and treating these subtle annular tears, the DISCSEEL® Procedure not only addresses existing pain but also works proactively to prevent future issues, ensuring a comprehensive solution for spinal disc health.

What is Fibrin and Its Role in the DISCSEEL® Procedure?

Fibrin is a natural protein that plays a key role in the body’s healing process. It is formed from fibrinogen, a protein found in blood plasma, during the blood clotting process. When the body experiences cuts or tears in skin or tissues, fibrin works by forming a fibrous mesh to help seal the wound, stop bleeding, and encourage the growth of new tissue.

In the same way, when applied to damaged spinal discs, fibrin acts to seal tears, prevent fluid leakage, and stimulate the growth of new, healthy tissue. Spinal discs, which typically struggle to heal on their own, can benefit from this natural healing process.

Fibrin in the DISCSEEL® Procedure

Fibrin is a key component of the DISCSEEL® Procedure, where it is injected into the outer layer of the spinal disc, called the annulus fibrosus. Once injected, fibrin flows through the layers of the disc and seals any existing tears or defects, preventing the nucleus pulposus (the gel-like center of the disc) from leaking and irritating nearby spinal nerves.

Unlike other regenerative treatments such as PRP or stem cells, fibrin creates a unique, natural 3D matrix that mimics the body’s natural healing process. This environment stimulates the repair and regeneration of disc tissue, promoting long-term healing in a way that the body cannot achieve on its own.

FDA Approval and Off-Label Use
Fibrin is FDA-approved for certain medical applications and is used off-label in the DISCSEEL® Procedure, similar to how corticosteroids are used off-label in epidural injections. The fibrin used in this procedure is non-autologous, composed of prothrombin and fibrinogen, and is specifically formulated to create a stable, effective polymer matrix for healing damaged discs.

The DISCSEEL® Procedure is minimally invasive and performed under fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance to ensure precise placement of the sealant into the damaged discs.

The patient is usually moderately sedated or given local anesthesia to minimize discomfort during the procedure.

A fine needle is inserted into the affected disc, and the fibrin sealant is injected into the area of the tear. The procedure typically takes 30-60 minutes, depending on the number of discs being treated.

Multiple discs can be treated in one session, often addressing several levels of disc damage.

One of the most appealing aspects of the DISCSEEL® Procedure is the relatively short recovery time compared to traditional spinal surgery. Since the procedure is minimally invasive, most patients experience a quicker recovery and are able to return to their normal activities much sooner.

What to Expect During Recovery:

• Immediate Aftercare: After the procedure, you’ll be monitored for a short period, and most patients are discharged within 30 minutes. You can typically go home the same day, with little to no downtime.
• First Few Days: While you’ll be able to resume light activities within a few days, it’s recommended to avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting during the initial recovery period. Many patients find they can return to work or their usual daily activities within a few days, depending on their individual progress.
• Full Recovery: The overall recovery time varies from patient to patient, depending on factors such as the extent of the damage to the discs and overall health. Most people experience noticeable improvements within the first few weeks. However, optimal healing may take several months as the fibrin stimulates tissue regeneration and disc repair.
• Follow-Up Care: Dr. Pecherek creates a personalized post-procedure plan to help accelerate recovery. Regular follow-up appointments allow for monitoring of your progress and adjustments to your recovery protocol, ensuring the best outcome.

Unlike traditional spinal surgery, which often requires weeks or months of recovery and rehabilitation, the DISCSEEL® Procedure allows many patients to return to light activities and work within just a few days, with long-term healing continuing over time. This minimally invasive approach, combined with Dr. Pecherek’s custom-tailored recovery plan, helps maximize your comfort and speeds up your return to a pain-free, active lifestyle.

Dr. Aleksander Pecherek understands that every patient is unique, which is why he creates a custom-tailored post-procedure protocol for each individual following the DISCSEEL® Procedure. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, Dr. Pecherek takes the time to assess your specific needs, lifestyle, and recovery goals in order to design a personalized plan that optimizes your healing and promotes a faster, more effective recovery.

This individualized protocol may include:

• Targeted Exercises and Stretching: Dr. Pecherek incorporates movement therapy to strengthen and mobilize the spine, helping to accelerate the healing of spinal discs and restore function.
• Pain Management Guidance: Whether it’s managing mild discomfort or ensuring that you’re comfortable as you heal, Dr. Pecherek provides specific advice on pain management tailored to your recovery process.
• Lifestyle and Activity Adjustments: From recommendations on posture and ergonomics to guidance on resuming physical activity, his plan supports your return to a normal, active life—without risking reinjury.
• Ongoing Monitoring and Support: Dr. Pecherek believes in staying involved throughout your recovery. Regular follow-ups allow him to track your progress, adjust your plan as needed, and ensure the best possible outcome.

By taking this personalized, holistic approach to recovery, Dr. Pecherek helps you not only heal faster but also achieve long-term success with the DISCSEEL® Procedure. His goal is to restore your quality of life quickly and effectively, so you can get back to the activities you love with greater mobility and less pain.

The primary benefit of the DISCSEEL® Procedure is its potential to regenerate and restore the damaged disc, rather than removing or altering disc material.

Studies and patient outcomes suggest that the DISCSEEL® Procedure can provide long-term pain relief, particularly for individuals who have not found success with other treatments like physical therapy, medications, or less invasive procedures like epidural steroid injections.

Since it promotes natural healing, the procedure may prevent the need for more invasive surgeries, such as spinal fusion or artificial disc replacement, both of which come with longer recovery times and more significant long-term implications for spine mobility.

• Patients with degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, or bulging discs that have failed to respond to conservative treatments like physical therapy, medication, or injections.
• Individuals with chronic back pain due to annular tears or damaged discs.
• Patients looking for a non-surgical, regenerative option that avoids spinal fusion, which alters spinal biomechanics.

Dr. Kevin Pauza, the inventor the DISCSEEL® Procedure, conducted a clinical study in which 82 percent of patients who failed all other treatments, reported experiencing sustained relief beyond 3 years following the DISCSEEL® Procedure. Many patients report significant pain relief and improved function within months of the procedure.

Unlike traditional surgery, which may accelerate degeneration in adjacent discs, the Discseel Procedure aims to preserve the natural structure and function of the spine, reducing the risk of further spinal deterioration.

The DISCSEEL® Procedure offers a breakthrough solution for chronic back and neck pain, and with Dr. Pecherek’s personalized approach, it means more than just pain relief—it’s about restoring your quality of life. Here’s what you can expect:

Faster Recovery: Unlike traditional spinal surgery, the DISCSEEL® Procedure is minimally invasive with a much shorter recovery time. Most patients return to their daily activities within a few days, allowing you to get back to work, exercise, and enjoy life without long interruptions.

Long-Lasting Results: The DISCSEEL® Procedure addresses the root cause of your pain by promoting healing in the damaged discs, which helps prevent future problems. With Dr. Pecherek’s custom-tailored recovery plan, your spine can heal more effectively, leading to sustained relief and improved spinal function over time.

Reduced Risk of Future Pain: By sealing annular tears and stimulating new tissue growth, the DISCSEEL® Procedure doesn’t just relieve your current symptoms—it helps to restore the natural strength and structure of your discs. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of future pain and disc degeneration, helping you maintain a healthier spine for years to come.

A Return to an Active Life: Whether you’re an athlete, a busy professional, or someone who simply wants to live without the burden of back pain, the DISCSEEL® Procedure offers a chance to return to the activities you enjoy. Thanks to its quick recovery time and lasting results, you can regain mobility and vitality sooner than you might have thought possible.

In short, what this means for you is that you can finally experience lasting relief from chronic back pain, return to a more active lifestyle, and get back to doing the things that matter most—without the need for invasive surgery or extended downtime.