Overview
A spinal cord stimulator (SCS) implant is an outpatient procedure to place leads or wires and a battery to provide long-term spinal cord stimulation for pain relief. The procedure is completed typically using two small incisions about 3-4 inches each.
The goal of the stimulator is to help you to better manage your pain and potentially decrease the amount of pain medication you needed. Stimulation does not eliminate the source of pain; it simply interferes with the signal to the brain. The goal for spinal cord stimulation is a 50-100% reduction in pain.
What conditions are treated with spinal cord stimulation?
There are many neuropathic pain or nerve pain conditions treated with spinal cord stimulation. Spinal cord stimulation is commonly used to treat the following conditions: failed back surgery syndrome, post-laminectomy syndrome, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), neuropathy, refractory lumbar radiculopathy, chronic abdominal pain, and refractory angina pectoris. Most patients with these conditions experience 50-100% relief.
Overview of the Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial and Permanent Implant Process:
Stage 1a: Pain Physician visit (evaluate your pain condition to determine whether your pain syndrome is helped by spinal cord stimulation).
Stage 1b: Diagnostic imaging and lab ordering (an MRI may be ordered to determine whether you have enough spinal space to have a lead safely placed).
Stage 2: Psychological evaluation (to understand your needs and expectations of therapy, also a requirement of insurance companies).
Stage 3: Trial stimulation (to evaluate the effectiveness of pain reduction, 5-8 days).
Stage 4: Permanent implantation (this may be performed by your pain physician or occasionally a spine surgeon depending on your pain syndrome needs).
The surgical procedure will entail placement of the lead in the epidural space of the spinal cord and placement of the battery in the buttock or flank.
How is the procedure performed?
Our team will help position you to make sure the procedure can be completed with the least amount of discomfort for you. An IV is placed and antibiotics are given. The skin is cleansed with a sterilizing solution (chlorhexidine) and a sterile drape is placed. A local anesthetic medication typically (lidocaine) is given to numb the skin. Next, fluoroscopy (x-ray) is used to find the target. Two small incisions are made. One incision is for the battery and a second is for the leads or wires.
The physician will provide local anesthesia (numbing medicine) and place the needle into your epidural space. They will then place the spinal cord stimulator lead into position. This will all be done under x-ray. Once it is in the right place, the representative from the company will help program it to make sure it is in the best possible location for each patient. Once this is accomplished, the needle is removed and the lead suture in place. All the wounds are closed with sutures and or staples. During the entire procedure you will be constantly monitored by our team. You will be given time after the procedure to make sure you feel good and are not having side-effects before leaving the clinic.
Does the procedure hurt?
The procedure is typically well tolerated. Mild to moderate soreness for a week after the procedure is normal. Medications for pain are often provided.
How long does the procedure take?
The procedure typically takes about 1-2 hours to perform. Please plan on being at the clinic for about 3-4 hours to allow for pre and post-procedural safety protocols.
Can I have the injection if I have diabetes?
Yes. It is important to control your blood sugar before and after the procedure. Diabetic patients may experience a temporary increase in blood sugar which should be monitored closely for days following the procedure. Uncontrolled diabetes increases the chance of a wound or device infection.
What are the risks and side effects?
Risks and side effects are minimal and serious complications are rare. We take every precaution to ensure safety. Potential risks may include but are not limited to: vasovagal response (passing out), new or increased pain, infection, bleeding, permanent skin changes, allergic or unexpected drug reaction with minor or major consequences, and unintended nerve injury.
Pre-Procedure Information
Please let us know if you have an active infection, are using antibiotics, or are using blood thinners.
Should I take my normal medications as scheduled?
Yes. Continue taking your prescribed medications prior to procedure.
What if I am on a blood thinner or Aspirin?
Anticoagulation is often stopped for a short period of time prior to injection. Please speak with your primary physician if you take blood thinners to make sure that you can safely stop taking these medications.
Do I need a driver?
Yes. For your safety we require a driver to ensure safe return home.
Can I eat the day of the procedure?
Do not eat any after midnight the night before the procedure. You must fast for at least 8 hours prior to the procedure.
Can I get sedation or anesthesia?
IV anesthesia is used patients typically do not require a breathing tube. The anesthesia is similar to what is provided for a colonoscopy.
What if I am pregnant?
There are serious potential risks to an unborn fetus when exposed to imaging studies, including x-ray and fluoroscopy. If there is any chance you may be pregnant, please postpone this procedure until it can be confirmed that you are not pregnant as it is not safe to do during pregnancy.
What should I wear?
We recommend light loose-fitting clothes. We will ask you to change into a gown.
Post-Procedure Information
When can I drive after the procedure?
We recommend limiting driving until you feel minor pain and are not requiring any additional medication.
What can I do if I am sore or have pain after the procedure?
Ice packs can be applied to the area for 20 minutes per hour. Over the counter Tylenol and Motrin can be used to aid with any discomfort. Prescription pain medications are sometimes provided
What are my restrictions after the procedure?
You will have minor limitations for 6 weeks. We recommend limiting any bending, lifting, or twisting. We recommend not lifting anything greater than 5 LBS. These restrictions decrease the chance of unintended lead migration or movement.
When can I shower?
No showering for 72 hours. At this point bandages can be removed. Showering using soap and water is okay. No submerging wound in water for 6 weeks.
When do I come back for a follow-up visit?
We follow-up with all of our patients after their procedures. We typically see our SCS implant patients back in 1-2 weeks and then again in about 4-6 weeks.
