Spinal Cord Stimulation

Initially, and before being implanted into the body, a spinal cord stimulator (or SCS) is used on a trial basis; should the trial SCS therapy prove to be effective, the device is then permanently implanted in the body.

Patients are lightly sedated prior to starting the procedure to permanently install the SCS. Your doctor will also administer local anaesthetic in or around the area designated for placement of leads for the SCS; the patient is then administered a general anaesthetic right before the SCS device is implanted.

The leads associated with a spinal cord stimulator are installed in the epidural space by using a tiny needle or a very small incision; the specific location of lead placement will depend on where exactly the patient’s pain is located. The spinal cord stimulator itself is typically implanted in the stomach or buttock region; however, there are other locations your physician might choose as the best install location for your specific situation.

Most SCS procedures are completed on an outpatient basis; some doctors will keep a patient overnight in the hospital for observation as a precaution. Like any surgery, it is common for patients to experience pain or discomfort at the site of incision; however, most patients report they are unable to feel the device after the incision has healed.

Although commonly referred to as a permanent installation or treatment option, spinal cord stimulation is a reversible procedure with the device being able to be turned off or removed at any time.

Like any surgical procedure involving the spine, there are risks that accompany SCS surgery, including:

• Infection
• Headache
• Allergic Reaction to Medication
• Spinal Fluid Leakage

 
In addition, risks that are specific to the spinal cord stimulator itself can include:

• Over-stimulation of the nerves.
• Intermittent starting or stopping of stimulation
• Stimulation of nerves in the incorrect location
• Battery leakage or failure
• Leaking of cerebrospinal fluid
• Chronic pain at the site
• Allergic response to materials implanted in the body.

Despite the risks associated with SCS, the procedure itself is considered low risk and spinal cord stimulation therapy has been reported to have a number of benefits, including:

• Allowing the patient to be in control of treating and relieving nerve pain and discomfort.
• Providing users increased ability to resume most or all of normal activities, including those activities related to work and/or exercise.
• Improved mental outlook and sense of wellbeing associated with relief of chronic nerve pain and discomfort.

Research indicates that SCS therapy provides long-term relief in nearly 80% of patients suffering from chronic pain and discomfort caused by conditions affecting the nerves. Further research indicates that roughly 25% of those receiving a spinal cord stimulator experienced improvements and pain reduction significant enough to allow for the return to normal activities