UTAH’S TOP PAIN SOLUTION EXPERTS
Interventional Surgical Center
Customizing your treatment plan to eliminate pain and start living again.
A Trusted Center for Minimally Invasive Pain Relief
Welcome to the Interventional Surgical Center
At the Interventional Surgical Center, we focus on helping patients take back control of their lives through advanced, minimally invasive procedures that target the root cause of pain.
Our physicians specialize in cutting-edge surgical and non-surgical solutions for chronic and complex pain conditions. From nerve-related treatments to spinal procedures, our approach is built around precision, safety, and long-term relief. Every patient receives a personalized treatment plan tailored to their unique needs and condition.
We proudly meet the highest compliance and safety standards, with national recognition from ACHC for our commitment to excellence. Whether you’re recovering from a failed back surgery, managing neuropathy, or looking for alternatives to long-term medication, we’re here to guide you through every step with trusted expertise and compassionate care.
Precision-Guided Procedures for Lasting Relief
What Is Interventional Pain?
Interventional pain is the process of managing pain and improving quality of life through minimally invasive techniques.
Many of the approaches used in interventional pain include nerve blocks, injections, infusions, spinal cord stimulation, and other advanced treatments performed by trained specialists.
At the Interventional Surgical Center, our focus is to ensure every patient is treated by top physicians and feels fully informed throughout their care. These targeted procedures help reduce pain at its source, minimize the need for long-term medications, and open the door to better function and mobility.
By combining innovation with a patient-first approach, we help people return to their daily lives with greater comfort and confidence.
Interventional Surgical Center
board certified physicians
Meet Your Providers
Dr. Garg is a double-boarded physician with fellowship training in pain management from the University of Washington. He is active in national and international pain societies, has published research on low back pain, and is skilled in a wide range of interventional procedures. He is committed to delivering compassionate, effective care tailored to each patient.
After medical school, Dr. Garg earned a master’s degree in health care administration from the University of Michigan with a focus on health policy and administration. He completed residency training in Anesthesiology at the Medical University of Ohio in Toledo and in Family Practice in Erie, PA. He is also a member of the American Academy of Pain Medicine and the International Spine Interventional Society.
Dr. Gensler is a board-certified physician in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation with fellowship training in Chronic and Interventional Pain Medicine. He provides comprehensive, patient-centered pain management that integrates medical, physical, and interventional strategies to improve quality of life and functional outcomes.
He completed his medical degree at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans, followed by residency training in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and an ACGME-accredited fellowship in Chronic and Interventional Pain Medicine at the University of New Mexico. His expertise combines diagnostic precision with advanced interventional techniques to address the full spectrum of pain conditions.
Advanced Surgical Pain Relief
Spinal Cord Stimulation
Spinal cord stimulation is a modern, minimally invasive treatment designed to reduce chronic pain by delivering mild electrical pulses to interrupt pain signals before they reach the brain. It’s often recommended when other treatments have failed and is commonly used for back pain, diabetic neuropathy, nerve pain, and failed back surgery syndrome. This outpatient procedure can significantly reduce reliance on pain medication and improve quality of life.
What Is Spinal Cord Stimulation?
Spinal cord stimulation is often used when other surgical or non-surgical treatments have failed. The process begins with a short trial using a disposable device so patients can determine if it provides relief. If successful, a permanent device may be implanted. This treatment can reduce pain, improve sleep, and lower the need for prescription medications. It is commonly used alongside other therapies for optimal results.
What Our Patients Use It For
Patients turn to spinal cord stimulation for chronic pain, diabetic neuropathy, sciatica, nerve pain, CRPS, and failed back surgery syndrome. Each year, thousands find meaningful relief through this therapy.
What is the Procedure Like?
The procedure involves a small incision to place an electrode under the skin. This connects to a stimulator, also implanted, that patients control to manage pain. It is done on an outpatient basis and does not require general anesthesia.
Are You a Good Candidate?
If you have not found relief from medication, less-invasive therapies, or past surgeries, you may benefit from spinal cord stimulation. Your provider will evaluate your condition and walk you through your options.
Is Spinal Cord Stimulation Safe?
While not for everyone, spinal cord stimulation is considered low risk compared to other surgical procedures. It avoids strong anesthesia and has a shorter recovery time. Patients with certain conditions, such as pregnancy, tumors, fractures, or spine implants, may not be suitable candidates.
When Should I Consider Spinal Cord Stimulation?
SCS may be appropriate if you have ongoing pain after surgery, CRPS, or severe nerve pain. Many patients experience at least 50% pain reduction and improved function. Your provider can help determine if it’s the right choice for you.
Minimally Invasive Relief for Pelvic and Lower Back Pain
SI Joint Fusion: Stabilize the Source of Pain
Sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction can cause chronic pain in the lower back, hips, or legs. When conservative care fails to provide relief, SI joint fusion offers a targeted surgical solution. Using real-time imaging and titanium implants, this outpatient procedure stabilizes the joint and helps restore mobility. Our team works closely with physical therapists, chiropractors, and acupuncturists to guide your full recovery.
What Are SI Joint Fusions?
SI joint fusion is a minimally invasive surgery performed under anesthesia through a small incision near the buttocks. Titanium implants are inserted across the sacroiliac joint to stabilize it and reduce pain. Fluoroscopy (real-time imaging) guides implant placement. This approach is highly effective for patients with SI joint dysfunction that leads to chronic back or leg pain.
When Should I Consider an SI Joint Fusion?
Consider SI joint fusion if you have long-standing pain in your low back, hip, or groin that has not improved with physical therapy or other non-surgical options. It may also be the right step if sitting, walking, or climbing stairs becomes increasingly difficult. The procedure is elective, and your doctor will help weigh the benefits based on your condition and goals.
Is the SI Joint Fusion a Permanent Solution?
SI joint fusion is designed to provide lasting relief by stabilizing the joint. Long-term success depends on recovery and following a proper rehab plan.
Are There Other Options?
Yes. We always begin with conservative care before recommending surgery. Our providers create a personalized treatment plan that may include chiropractic, physical therapy, and other non-surgical approaches to help relieve pain and improve function without invasive intervention.
Targeted Relief for Radiating Back and Neck Pain
Epidural Steroid Injections: Fast-Acting Inflammation Control
When inflammation around spinal nerves causes pain to radiate into the arms or legs, an epidural steroid injection can offer fast, localized relief. This minimally invasive procedure delivers anti-inflammatory medication directly into the epidural space, helping reduce swelling and restore mobility. It’s often used to manage acute flare-ups or as a tool to re-engage patients in physical therapy when pain levels are high.
How Do We Use an Epidural for Pain Relief?
Epidurals involve injecting a low-dose steroid into the spine to reduce inflammation around nerve roots. It’s especially helpful for pain that radiates down the arm or leg. While not right for every case, it’s an effective option for patients experiencing significant nerve-related discomfort.
When Should I Consider an Epidural?
Two common situations where we recommend epidurals:
- Hot Low Back – Intense lower back pain that limits mobility and prevents participation in rehab.
- Non-Progressing Pain – When a patient’s improvement stalls despite active care, an epidural can relieve inflammation and allow progress to resume.
How Does It Work?
A steroid and anesthetic solution is injected into the epidural space of the spine. This reduces nerve inflammation and helps manage symptoms like shooting pain, numbness, or tingling.
How Long Do the Effects of an Epidural Steroid Injection Last?
Relief can last anywhere from a few days to several months. Some patients need repeat injections depending on their condition and response to care.
Are There Other Options to an Epidural?
Yes. Epidurals are one tool among many. We often combine them with physical therapy, chiropractic, acupuncture, and other non-invasive options to treat the root cause of pain and prevent recurrence.
Break the Pain Cycle at the Source
Nerve Reset Treatment: Long-Lasting Relief with RFA
Our Nerve Reset Treatment uses Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) to stop pain signals at the nerve level. After confirming the source of pain with a Medial Branch Block, a specialized probe targets the nerve, applying controlled heat to interrupt pain communication. This outpatient procedure can offer longer-lasting relief than injections alone, especially when combined with rehab to strengthen the area and reduce recurrence.
What Is an RFA (Radiofrequency Facet Ablation)?
Also called “nerve ablation” or “burning the nerve,” RFA uses radiofrequency energy to heat targeted spinal nerves that are transmitting pain. It follows a diagnostic test (MBB) to confirm the nerve source and provides relief by disrupting pain signals.
When Should I Consider an RFA?
If you’ve experienced chronic pain in the neck, mid-back, or low back and haven’t responded to other treatments, RFA may help. It’s best suited for patients ready to actively rehabilitate the area.
Why Would You Want to Burn the Nerve?
While it may sound extreme, RFA allows us to “reset” the pain signal and open a window for healing. With pain reduced, patients can more effectively engage in therapy to address the underlying problem.
How Often Do You Need an RFA?
Relief may last weeks to months, depending on the severity of the damage. Some patients repeat the procedure every six months, but with proper rehab, many extend results for years.
How Long Does Pain Relief from RFA Last?
Relief can last from several months to over a year. If the area isn’t properly rehabilitated, pain may return and repeat treatment could be necessary.
Does the Nerve Grow Back after an RFA?
Over time, nerves can regenerate. This is why it’s important to rehab the area to prevent pain from returning.
What If You Get an RFA and the Pain Is Still There?
Pain relief isn’t guaranteed. If it doesn’t work, our providers will review the results and explore alternate options. The goal is always to find a solution that moves you toward lasting recovery.
Pinpoint the Problem Before You Treat It
Medial Branch Block: Targeted Pain Diagnosis and Relief
A Medial Branch Block (MBB) helps us identify the exact source of your spine or back pain. It delivers temporary relief by numbing a specific nerve, confirming whether it’s the cause of your symptoms. This procedure helps us avoid unnecessary treatments by clearly guiding next steps. If pain relief occurs, we know we’re on the right path—and can move forward with longer-term solutions like RFA.
What Is a Medial Branch Block (MBB)?
An MBB is a diagnostic injection that temporarily blocks pain signals from a specific spinal nerve. If pain improves, it confirms that nerve as the source.
What Are the Benefits of an MBB?
It prevents unnecessary procedures by giving us clarity about what’s really causing your pain. It also provides short-term relief while we determine the best long-term plan.
How Long Does Relief from an MBB Last?
Relief usually lasts a few hours to a few days. The goal is to confirm the source of your pain before doing longer-lasting treatments.
Is a Medial Branch Block Diagnostic or a Treatment?
It’s primarily diagnostic. If your pain goes away after the block, it confirms the exact nerve responsible. We then use this to plan further treatment, like an RFA.
What Is the Next Step After an MBB?
If pain relief occurs, the next step is often a Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA), which offers longer-lasting relief and creates a window for rehab.
When Is an MBB Commonly Used?
At our surgical center, MBB is most often used to diagnose severe neck or back pain before committing to a longer-lasting solution like RFA.
Relief for Vertebrogenic Back Pain
INTRACEPT: A Certain Nerve Is Key
Back pain can often stem from damage to vertebral endplates, the surfaces between spinal discs and bones. When these endplates become inflamed, they trigger the basivertebral nerve (BVN) to send pain signals to the brain.
The Intracept Procedure is designed to interrupt that signal. This minimally invasive outpatient procedure uses targeted radiofrequency energy to heat and disable the BVN, stopping it from transmitting pain. It’s implant-free, preserves your spine’s structure, and typically takes about an hour under anesthesia. Because the BVN does not regenerate like other nerves, the results can last for years.
Who should consider the Intracept Procedure?
Intracept is ideal for patients with degenerative disc disease and vertebrogenic low back pain who haven’t responded to physical therapy, chiropractic care, injections, or medications. Symptoms often include low back pain without significant radiation. MRI findings may show Modic changes, endplate deformities, or Schmorl’s nodes.
What is the procedure like?
A small incision is made, and X-ray guidance is used to locate the basivertebral nerve. Once confirmed, heat is applied using radiofrequency energy to disrupt the nerve’s ability to send pain signals. The procedure is done in an outpatient setting and does not alter spinal structure or involve implants.
What is the aftercare like?
Recovery varies, but most patients return to normal activity within one to two weeks. Pain relief typically begins within two weeks. Unlike other radiofrequency procedures, the Intracept Procedure can provide long-term relief with a single treatment. In a recent study, many patients experienced relief lasting over five years, with more than one-third reporting they were completely pain-free.