The present invention relates to devices and methods for altering the tissue in and around an
intervertebral disc through localized
hypothermia therapy to restore function of the disc and reduce pain.
Hypothermia therapy is defined as the reduction of
tissue temperature to below that of the equilibrium temperature. Target therapeutic temperatures and times are varied according to the desired
treatment effect. Intended effects of
hypothermia of the
intervertebral disc include cellular disruption leading to
cell death and or structural and chemical denaturation within the anulus fibrosus,
nucleus pulposus, or nerve fibers, temporary or permanent deadening of the nerves within or surrounding the disc, induction of a healing response,
angiogenesis, or accelerated degeneration and / or
drying of the
nucleus pulposus and / or anulus fibrosus. Various effects can be achieved by reaching different temperatures for differing periods of time or by the proximity of the
hypothermia therapy device to the treatment target. Accordingly, it is an object of one or more the embodiments of the invention to provide hypothermic therapy to selected locations within an
intervertebral disc utilizing a flexible and guidable cryogenic device.