a similar type procedure is percutaneous laser disc decompression. IDET uses electrical heat whereas PLDD uses laser to try to accomplish same result.

There are many, many doctors that do PLDD in many spine specialists offices. You don't need to go to LSI to have it done.

From a prior post on the hugely long Laser Spine surgery thread, there where a few posts about it and the costs that LSI charge for the procedure.

Without even including the travel to Florida from wherever you live, hotel costs and food, the cost was way, way more than having it done locally with a good spine surgeon, in a hospital that is close to home.

If you have any problems post op, by having it done close to home, you will have a doctor to treat and follow you. Whereas, traveling to LSI or any of the other laser spine facilities, once you leave them, you are on your own.

Good luck

Fran

1. IDET is not even similar to PLDD. Please do not compare this 2 procedures!

2. IDET is different approach, trying to seal your annular tear. PLDD is decompression procedure, trying to relieve pressure from your nerve root or sinu-vertebral nerves (inside disc). Also success rate of PLDD and IDET is not comparable. PLDD is far superior procedure, accepted worldwide by most respected neurosurgeons. It has great results only if it is performed by BEST neurosurgeons because other ones do not respect one and only PLDD rule - STRONG PATIENT INDICATIONS ARE NEEDED.

3. LSI claims to be "Laser Institute" but situation is a little different. They do not use laser to treat disc herniations, they use it for some other purposes other than originally invented by Dr. Choy and Dr. Ascher (PLDD founders). LSI does NOT perform PLDD.

Lock94 - what is your correct diagnosis?