Spinal cord stimulators (SCS) are amazing little devices. This device is placed behind your spinal cord, and delivers an electrical impulse that interferes with pain signals before they are perceived by your brain. Some stimulators create a gentle tingling sensation (paresthesia) that masks the pain, while others just neutralize the pain signals altogether. One of the most common indications for SCS is failed back surgery syndrome. If you had spine surgery and you still have pain, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the surgeon did something wrong. Sometimes patients just don’t respond as expected. SCS to the rescue!
The SCS protocol has several steps. First off, you must have tried and failed every other possible treatment option. At this point, you would be considered a candidate for an SCS trial. Next you must be cleared by a psychiatrist. We need to be sure that you understand how a stimulator works, and that you will be able to use it effectively. The pscyh screen is important for weeding out candidates who may have unrealistic expectations, or may not be able to use the SCS correctly. Once you have passed your psych screen, you are ready for your SCS trial. This is the “try it before you buy it” phase of your care. The spinal cord stimulator lead is basically a wire. This wire is percutaneously inserted into your epidural space under fluoroscopic guidance. This is done under local anesthesia, and you do not need to go to sleep for the trial. Once the trial lead is inserted, your SCS device representative will work with you to find a program that covers all of your painful areas. You will try the device for 7 days, and then follow-up in office for lead removal. The trial lead slides out with gentle pressure, so removal is not uncomfortable at all. If you had a successful trial (meaning a significant improvement in pain and functionality), then we will schedule you for permanent SCS implantation. For the permanent SCS you will need to have some form of monitored anesthesia care, but it is a same-day procedure.
Are you are thinking about getting some lightening implanted in your back? This is an amazing medical device with many indications, so let’s decide if you are a candidate. Please reach out to my office so we can schedule a visit to discuss this further.
