Spinal Cord Stimulation
Regarded as a leading pain management team in Texas, we offer a wide variety of patient-centered, expert care to our patients and community.
Overview: How Spinal Cord Stimulation Works
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a medical treatment used our pain management physicians use to manage chronic pain. It involves the implantation of a small device, similar to a pacemaker, which delivers electrical pulses to the spinal cord.
These electrical pulses interfere with the nerve signals that transmit pain to the brain, thereby reducing the perception of pain.
Implantation
• Permanent Implantation: If the trial is successful, a permanent system is implanted. This includes electrodes (leads) placed near the spinal cord and a pulse generator implanted under the skin, usually in the abdomen or buttocks.
Stimulation
Programming
Conditions Treated by Spinal Cord Stimulation
Conditions:
- Failed back surgery syndrome (persistent pain after back surgery)
- Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Spinal stenosis
- Ischemic limb pain
- Arachnoiditis
- Certain types of cancer-related pain
Benefits and Risks of Spinal Cord Stimulation
- Reduction in chronic pain levels
- Decreased reliance on pain medications
- Improved quality of life and function
- Infection at the implant site
- Lead migration (movement of the electrodes)
- Device malfunction or breakage
- Nerve damage
- Pain at the implant site
- Need for further surgeries for adjustments or replacements
Accepting New Patients
Pain Treatment Institute is committed to offering the latest treatments to remove or relieve acute and chronic pain. Our pain management clinics are accepting new patients. Contact our office to schedule an appointment.
Suitability for Spinal Cord Stimulators
Not everyone is a candidate for SCS. The decision is based on the type of pain, its duration, and the patient’s overall health. It is usually considered when other treatments, like medications, physical therapy, or less invasive procedures, have failed to provide adequate pain relief.
