OVERVIEW

Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS)

(SCS) is a form of neuromodulation used primarily for managing chronic pain, particularly when other treatments have failed. This technology involves the use of a device that delivers low-level electrical signals directly to the spinal cord to block pain signals before they reach the brain. SCS is often considered an advanced option for patients with chronic pain conditions that do not respond to more conventional therapies.

Indications

• Failed Back Surgery Syndrome: Persistent pain after one or more back surgeries.
• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): A chronic pain condition affecting the limbs, often after injury or surgery.
• Neuropathic Pain: Pain resulting from nerve damage, which can feel like burning, shooting, or tingling.
• Radicular Pain Syndrome

What are the Key Components?

• Electrode Leads: Thin wires with electrical contacts on them, which are placed in the epidural space near the spinal cord.
• Generator: A small battery-powered device that generates the electrical pulses. This is usually implanted under the skin in the abdomen or buttock area.
• Programmer: A device used to adjust the settings of the stimulation according to the patient’s needs, allowing for customization of the therapy.

The electrode leads are strategically placed along specific areas of the spinal cord depending on the location of the pain. Once activated, the generator sends electrical pulses through these leads to the spinal cord, where they interfere with the nerve signals that are perceived as pain.

What are the Procedure for Implanting an SCS Device?

• Trial Phase: Before a full implantation is considered, a trial stimulation is typically performed to determine if the SCS will effectively alleviate pain. This involves temporarily placing the electrode leads and connecting them to an external generator.
• Implantation: If the trial is successful (usually defined as a 50% or greater reduction in pain), a permanent system is implanted. This procedure is minimally invasive and usually done under local anesthesia combined with sedation.
• Postoperative Care: After the implantation, patients will undergo a period of adjustment where the settings of the stimulator may be fine-tuned to optimize pain relief.

What are the Benefits?

• Pain Relief: Many patients experience significant reductions in pain, which can improve quality of life.
• Reduced Medication Use: SCS may reduce the need for pain medications, including opioids.
• Reversible and Adjustable: The device can be turned off or removed if it becomes unnecessary, and stimulation settings can be adjusted as needed.
  • Safe
  • Drug-free
  • FDA-approved
  • Clinically proven to provide long-term relief from chronic pain