TSAOG names Patrick Ahern first Intracept Center of Excellence doctor in San Antonio

TSAOG says Patrick Ahern, M.D., is the first physician in San Antonio to earn Intracept Center of Excellence status. The designation spotlights advanced training in a minimally invasive treatment for chronic low back pain and may broaden access to specialized spine care in the region.

Why it matters: - The recognition puts a San Antonio spine specialist in a small group of physicians vetted for advanced Intracept training and experience. - The designation may expand local access to a minimally invasive option for chronic low back pain tied to vertebrogenic pain. - For patients who have not improved with conservative care, the procedure offers another treatment path without implants.

What happened: - TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine announced that Patrick Ahern, M.D., became the first physician in San Antonio to receive the Intracept Center of Excellence designation. - The recognition was announced Aug. 25, 2026. - The designation is given to physicians who meet standards for expertise, ongoing proficiency and extensive experience with the Intracept procedure.

The details: - Intracept is a minimally invasive outpatient treatment for chronic low back pain associated with the basivertebral nerve. - The procedure targets a specific source of vertebrogenic pain in appropriately selected patients whose symptoms have persisted despite conservative treatment. - Intracept uses radiofrequency energy to ablate the basivertebral nerve. - The nerve carries pain signals from damaged vertebral endplates to the brain. - The procedure typically takes 60 to 90 minutes. - Intracept does not require implants. - The treatment is designed to provide long-lasting pain relief for eligible patients. - TSAOG said Ahern’s designation reflects his experience performing the procedure and his focus on evidence-based spine care. - TSAOG said the recognition marks a milestone for Ahern’s practice and for patients seeking specialized treatment options for chronic low back pain. - TSAOG said the designation highlights continued advancement of specialized spine care available through the practice. - TSAOG said the recognition expands access to proven treatment options for patients throughout the San Antonio community.

Between the lines: - The designation serves as a signal of provider specialization in a field where treatment choice often depends on careful patient selection. - The announcement also positions TSAOG as a regional hub for advanced spine care, not just a general orthopedic practice.

What’s next: - Patients with chronic low back pain may look to TSAOG for evaluation of whether Intracept is an appropriate option. - The recognition could strengthen referral pathways for specialized vertebrogenic pain treatment in San Antonio and South Texas.

The bottom line: - Ahern’s new designation gives San Antonio another credentialed option for patients exploring minimally invasive treatment for persistent low back pain.