Skip to content
- Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgeries
- Spinal Cord Stimulation
Spinal Cord Stimulation
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a procedure used to manage chronic pain by implanting a device that sends electrical impulses to the spinal cord. These impulses interfere with the transmission of pain signals to the brain, reducing the sensation of pain. Here’s an overview of the procedure:
Spinal cord stimulation is often recommended for patients with chronic pain conditions such as:
- Failed back surgery syndrome (persistent pain after spinal surgery)
- Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Angina
- Pain related to spinal cord injuries
Preoperative Preparation
- Evaluation: Comprehensive evaluation including medical history, physical examination, and pain assessment. Imaging studies (MRI, CT scans) may be used to rule out other causes of pain.
- Trial Stimulation: A trial period with a temporary stimulator is conducted to assess the effectiveness of the therapy. If significant pain relief is achieved, the patient may proceed with the permanent implant.
Procedure Steps
1. Trial Stimulation:
- Insertion of Leads: Under local anesthesia, leads (thin wires with electrodes) are inserted into the epidural space of the spine using a needle. The leads are positioned near the spinal cord.
- Connection to External Stimulator: The leads are connected to an external stimulator, which the patient wears on a belt. The patient uses a handheld programmer to adjust the stimulation settings.
- Evaluation Period: The trial period typically lasts about 7-10 days. If the patient experiences significant pain relief (usually 50% or more), the trial is considered successful, and the patient may proceed to the permanent implantation.
2. Permanent Implantation:
- Anesthesia: The permanent implantation is performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.
- Insertion of Leads: The leads are inserted in a manner similar to the trial, but with more permanent placement.
- Implantation of Pulse Generator: A small incision is made, usually in the lower back or abdomen, to create a pocket for the pulse generator (the battery-powered device that generates electrical impulses). The leads are tunneled under the skin and connected to the pulse generator.
- Programming: The pulse generator is programmed to deliver electrical impulses tailored to the patient’s pain patterns. The patient receives a handheld programmer to adjust the settings as needed.
- Closure: The incisions are closed with sutures or surgical glue.
Postoperative Care
- Recovery: Patients are typically observed for a few hours and can usually go home the same day or the next day.
- Pain Management: Pain at the incision sites is managed with oral pain medications.
- Follow-Up: Regular follow-up visits with the surgeon and pain management specialist to monitor the healing process and adjust the device settings.
- Activity Restrictions: Patients may be advised to limit certain activities, such as bending, twisting, or lifting, for a few weeks to allow the leads to settle in place.
Advantages
- Significant reduction in chronic pain
- Improved quality of life
- Reduced need for pain medications
- Reversible and adjustable therapy
Spinal cord stimulation offers an effective treatment option for patients with chronic pain, particularly when other therapies have failed. The trial period allows patients to determine if the therapy will provide adequate pain relief before committing to a permanent implant.
Contact us at Inspired Spine today for a free consultation by dialing (952) 225-5266
Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgeries
See Our Treatments
Inspired Spine has developed advanced minimally invasive spinal surgery techniques that allow us to treat even complex spinal conditions without the drawbacks of traditional open back surgery.
Are You a
Candidate for
MIS Spinal
Surgery?
Is neck or back pain restricting your daily activities? For 6 months or more? Have non-surgical treatments failed to help?
“I Live a Whole
Different Life.”
Over 1,000 patients have benefited from Inspired Spine MIS Surgeries. See testimonials from just a few.