The Local Health Unit of Médio Tejo (ULS Médio Tejo) has successfully performed three innovative procedures to treat chronic lower back pain using the Neurolyser XR, an advanced system based on high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) guided by fluoroscopy.
The technology is designed to treat chronic lower back pain caused by facet joint osteoarthritis. Unlike conventional procedures, it requires no needles or other invasive instruments.
Instead, the Neurolyser XR uses precisely focused ultrasound energy to create a controlled thermal lesion in the nerve structures responsible for transmitting pain. According to the hospital, this approach reduces the risk of infection and bleeding, minimises procedure-related discomfort, and enables faster patient recovery.
The procedures were carried out at the Outpatient Surgery Unit at Tomar Hospital by the Chronic Pain Unit within the Department of Anaesthesiology.
ULS Médio Tejo was one of a small number of hospitals selected to participate in a European clinical demonstration programme, which provided temporary access to the Neurolyser XR system.
According to the institution, participation in the international programme reflects its commitment to clinical innovation and the adoption of advanced technologies that support safer, more precise and more patient-centred care.
