What is spinal cord stimulation?

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a highly effective treatment for severe and chronic pain caused by failed back surgery, neuropathy, complex regional pain syndrome, and other conditions. This innovative approach disrupts the communication of pain signals between the spinal cord and the brain, alleviating persistent discomfort. SCS uses a neurostimulator, an electric device like a pacemaker, that is discretely implanted beneath the skin.

What is a spinal stimulator?

A spinal cord stimulator is a small device that transmits controlled electrical pulses via thin, insulated wires, referred to as leads. These leads deliver electrical pulses close to the spinal cord.

Patients can adjust the stimulator to specific areas and levels of pain, as needed, using a handheld device that functions much like a remote control. Through this process, spinal cord stimulation replaces pain signals with a subtle tingling sensation, essentially tricking the brain to eliminate the perception of pain.

Who can benefit from spinal cord stimulation? 

Spinal cord stimulation offers effective pain management for chronic conditions that may not respond to other treatments. It can address several types of pain, including heart-related chest pain, nerve pain, and back pain. In addition, spinal cord stimulation offers several benefits:

  • SCS can reduce the reliance on strong medications, such as opioids, which often come with side effects and risks.
  • Published studies have shown SCS resulted in long-term pain relief for 50 to 60 percent of patients.
  • The procedure is reversible, allowing the removal of the electrode wires and stimulator if a patient chooses to discontinue the treatment.

What to expect from the spinal stimulator implant

Spinal cord stimulation surgery is typically performed in two phases: a trial phase and an implantation phase. Each phase has a different treatment objective and process.

Spinal cord stimulation recovery

Spinal cord stimulator recovery time varies from person to person. There are several post-operative restrictions and adjustments to consider when recovering from an SCS procedure. While you can typically return home the day of or the day after surgery, your doctor may recommend limiting strenuous physical activity for several weeks (usually four to six weeks).

Light exercise such as walking is encouraged during recovery as it can help the healing process. Your doctor may also advise you to limit heavy lifting, bending, and twisting for a period to ensure the proper healing and positioning of the leads.

About ten days after your surgery, you'll be asked to return to your doctor's office for a check on your incision. This is when the programming of your pulse generator can be fine-tuned to make any needed adjustments to the strength and duration of your stimulation pulses.

In most cases, patients can gradually return to light levels of activity within several days after the procedure. Your Penn Medicine care team will provide you with personalized recommendations and closely monitor your progress to ensure you have a successful recovery.

Potential side effects of spinal cord stimulation

Spinal cord stimulation surgery is considered a safe and effective procedure for managing chronic pain. However, like any medical procedure, there are potential risks and complications. After the surgery, it's common to experience some discomfort or mild pain at the incision site. Your doctor may prescribe medications to help you manage any pain and your discomfort should ease in the days following the procedure.

Other risks of SCS include:

  • Allergic responses to the spinal stimulator implant materials
  • Bleeding or hematoma
  • Infection around the implanted hardware
  • Injuries resulting from displaced leads
  • Pain at the incision site or site of the nerve stimulator
  • Possible damage to the spinal cord and surrounding tissues
  • Undesirable changes in stimulation and possible side effects such as discomfort or numbness

Your Penn Medicine care team will be there to discuss these potential risks with you and help you carefully weigh the benefits and risks of spinal cord stimulation before proceeding with the procedure. Our skilled surgeons prioritize your safety, ensuring the procedure is carried out with precision and care. We are committed to minimizing any risks and addressing any concerns you may have, making Penn Medicine the optimal choice for your spinal cord stimulation needs.

Penn Medicine's expertise in spine care with spinal stimulation

Boasting a team of seasoned experts in spine care collaborating seamlessly across multiple disciplines, including Penn Neurology and Neurosurgery, orthopaedics, pain medicine and more, Penn Medicine stands as one of the most sophisticated spine care programs in the region. At the heart of our patient-centered philosophy is evidence-based medicine supported by rigorous scientific research. Our spine specialists forge trust-based relationships with patients, guiding them through a comprehensive array of non-surgical and surgical treatment options, and tailoring treatment plans that meet each patient's unique needs.

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