Spinal Cord Stimulators can provide relief for individuals suffering from chronic pain, particularly those with nerve-related pain.
A spinal cord stimulator (SCS) is a device that is surgically implanted under the skin and connected to electrodes that are placed near the spinal cord. The device delivers electrical impulses to the spinal cord, which can help alleviate chronic pain in patients who have not responded to other treatments. The SCS works by stimulating the nerves in the spinal cord, which can interfere with the transmission of pain signals to the brain. This is accomplished by delivering a low-level electrical current to the spinal cord, which can reduce the amount of pain that is perceived by the patient. The effectiveness of the Spinal Cord Stimulators depends on a number of factors, including the location of the electrodes, the frequency and intensity of the electrical impulses, and the patient’s individual response to the therapy. While SCS is not a cure for chronic pain, it can provide significant relief for many patients who have not responded to other treatments, such as medication or physical therapy. In addition, SCS is a safe and non-invasive alternative to other pain management techniques, such as surgery or opioid medication.
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a promising therapy for chronic pain conditions when conservative treatments have failed to provide relief. Candidates for SCS include patients with neuropathic pain, failed back surgery syndrome, complex regional pain syndrome, and ischemic limb pain. The selection of patients for SCS should be based on careful patient selection, psychological screening, and a thorough trial period with temporary SCS. Preoperative imaging is essential to identify anatomical abnormalities that could affect the placement of the SCS leads. The implantation of the SCS system involves the insertion of one or more leads into the epidural space and the subcutaneous placement of the pulse generator. The procedure can be performed under local anesthesia and conscious sedation or general anesthesia. Careful postoperative management is necessary to optimize pain relief and minimize complications. Patients should be followed up regularly to ensure proper functioning of the system and to address any issues that may arise. SCS is a safe and effective treatment option for chronic pain when used appropriately in well-selected patients.
Research
- JJ Struijk.”Epidural spinal cord stimulation: calculation of field potentials with special reference to dorsal column nerve fibers.” https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/68217/
- “Novel spinal cord stimulation parameters in patients with predominant back pain.” https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1094715913600653