Spinal Cord Stimulators

Background

  • A spinal cord simulator generates a low-level electrical field to interrupt nerve conduction of pain signals to the brain

  • There is a two-step process to acquire this device, a trial followed by an implant.

  • The trial gives the patient an opportunity to experience stimulation of a temporary device for a few days without having to undergo full implantation.

  • This treatment is for people who suffer from neuropathic pain and/or for patients who have had back surgery in the past but continue to have pain.

Procedure

  • Temporary spinal cord stimulator wires are placed in the patient’s back through injections. The patient wears a bandage covering the puncture sites and has an external device for 3-4 days.

  • Electrical impulses are transmitted from the external device through the wires into the patient’s body to relieve chronic pain of the back, arms, and legs.

  • After the trial, the wires are removed. If the patient experienced significant pain relief during the trial then they may opt to be scheduled for a permanent spinal cord stimulator implant. The permanent stimulator device is controlled through the skin via remote control.