Spinal Cord Stimulator

Introduction

Spinal cord stimulators (SCS) are advanced medical devices that are designed to alleviate chronic pain by delivering low-voltage electrical currents to the spinal cord. This technique, known as neuromodulation, interrupts pain signals before they reach the brain, providing significant relief for patients suffering from persistent pain

Clinical Indications:

SCS is indicated for managing chronic, intractable pain of the trunk and/or limbs, including conditions such as:

Neuropathic pain (e.g., diabetic neuropathy, post-herpetic neuralgia)1
Failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS)
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
Chronic pain from peripheral vascular disease

Technique

The procedure involves two main phases:

Trial Period: A temporary stimulator is implanted to assess the patient's response to the therapy.
Permanent Implantation: If the trial is successful, a permanent device is implanted under the skin, with electrodes placed in the epidural space

Goals & Therapeutic Value

Goals: The primary goal of SCS is to reduce pain levels, improve quality of life, and decrease reliance on pain medications. It aims to provide a reversible and minimally invasive solution for chronic pain management.

Therapeutic Value: SCS has shown significant therapeutic value in reducing pain and improving functionality in patients with chronic pain conditions. It offers an alternative to traditional pain management methods, such as opioids, which can be addictive and have adverse side effects.

What to Expect

When a patient comes to the clinic for SCS, they undergo a thorough evaluation to determine their suitability for the procedure. The trial period helps assess the effectiveness of the therapy before proceeding with permanent implantation. Patients can expect a minimally invasive procedure with a quick recovery time. The entire process, including the trial period and permanent implantation, typically takes a few weeks to a couple of months. The actual implantation procedure usually lasts about 1-2 hours under local anesthesia.

Possible Side Effects and Complications

While SCS is generally safe, potential side effects and complications may include:

Uncomfortable or jolting stimulation
Infection at the implant site
Device malfunction or migration
Pain at the implant site
Hematoma or epidural hemorrhage

We are here to help you

At our Pain Management Clinic, we are dedicated to providing cutting-edge solutions for chronic pain management. Spinal cord stimulators offer a minimally invasive and effective treatment option for patients suffering from persistent pain. Our experienced team is committed to ensuring that each patient receives personalized care, from the initial consultation through the trial period and permanent implantation. We strive to improve the quality of life for our patients by offering advanced therapies like spinal cord stimulation, tailored to their unique needs and conditions.