Intrathecal Drug Delivery

SPINAL CORD STIMULATORS – TRIALS AND IMPLANTATIONS

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a highly effective interventional pain management procedure that is used to relieve pain by confusing the brain’s perception of pain. The procedure is accomplished by inserting a device, called a spinal cord stimulator, into the body. Where the device is placed depends on where the patient is experiencing pain. Once inserted, the spinal cord stimulator begins sending electrical impulses to the spinal cord and nerves to intercept pain signals. Instead of pain, the patient experiences a more comfortable tingling sensation.

TYPES OF PAIN SPINAL CORD STIMULATION TREATS

Spinal cord stimulation may be used in individuals with severe or chronic neuropathic pain whose symptoms have not improved with other treatments.

If you have one of the following diagnoses, you may be a good candidate for SCS:

• Complex regional pain syndrome
• Diabetic neuropathy
• Epidural fibrosis
• Failed back surgery syndrome
• Post-laminectomy syndrome
• Radiculopathy
• Chronic Nerve Pain
• Neurogenic Low Back Pain
• Reflex sympathetic dystrophy

SPINAL CORD STIMULATOR TRIAL

Before undergoing a permanent spinal cord stimulator implantation, you will go through a spinal cord stimulator trial period. For the trial, electronic leads will be placed under the skin using an introducer needle and are attached to a small pulse generator (battery) that you will have to carry. Electrical currents will be emitted at pre-set intervals to target the areas where you feel pain.

The trial will allow you to experience the effects of SCS for about 5 to 7 days to determine whether your pain will be improved by stimulation. During this time, you must decide whether the stimulator provides sufficient pain relief and whether you are comfortable with the new sensations produced.

After the trial period is over, the leads will be pulled out. An additional procedure is not required. If the trial is successful in providing a 50% to 70% reduction in pain, you can be scheduled for a permanent stimulator implantation.

SPINAL CORD STIMULATOR IMPLANTATION

The permanent spinal cord stimulator implantation is an outpatient surgical procedure that takes about one to two hours to perform. It is similar to the trial procedure; however, the generator must also be surgically inserted (usually in the abdomen or upper buttock) so that all the wires and parts are under the skin.

You will need a ride home after the procedure, and you should plan to take things easy for a day or two afterwards. You will be able to perform most activities following the spinal cord stimulator implantation; however, you should avoid bending, twisting and stretching the spine, in addition to heavy lifting.

If the procedure is successful, you may experience total pain relief or a significant reduction in pain symptoms. You will, however, feel a tingling feeling caused by the electrical nerve stimulation.

To learn more about spinal cord stimulation for conditions such as cervical and lumbar back pain, contact our office. Many patients find this groundbreaking procedure to be extremely effective at relieving pain.