Presentation of the technique for the implantation of a Spinal Cord Stimulator (SCS) System

SCS works best for patients with neuropathic pain. If a patient feels that they are in significant pain, have failed conservative modalities, and no further surgeries are anticipated, then SCS should be considered. Some patients may have a surgically correctable lesion, however, because of their coexisting medical problems, they may be a poor surgical candidate. In this case, SCS would be considered. SCS can be cost effective by reducing the numbar of office visits, reduction in the utilization of other health services, reduction in the utilization of medications, and is less expensive than a major surgical procedure. SCS can empower a patient by giving them control of their pain treatment modality. SCS effects are immediate compared to medications, In addition, SCS is somewhat reversible as it is easily explanted in the event the patient did not have satisfactory relief.

This is an outpatient procedure. Sedation is utilized. The patient first undergoes a percutaneous trial that may last 3-5 days. After which the temporary leads are removed. If the patient experiences at least 50% relief during the trial, then permanent implantation may be considered.

Click on the link to view the Spinal Cord Stimulator Implantation presentation. There are a lot of pictures so it may take a while to load.