Spinal Cord Stimulator
Spinal Cord Stimulator (SCS) therapy is an increasingly popular procedure that changes pain signals travelling through the spinal cord to the brain by delivering low-level electrical impulses to the spinal cord. Usually this type of therapy targets chronic back, neck, arm, and leg pain. The spinal cord simulator device is placed near the spinal cord and delivers low-level electrical impulses to the spinal cord or to particular nerves that interfere with the perception of pain, especially chronic nerve pain. SCS uses cutting edge technology by implanting a small device into the body either through the skin or surgically.
The Procedure
- The patient is given a local anesthetic and mild sedation.
- The physician places the trial SCS leads into a needle through the back into the epidural space.
- The lead is taped to the patient’s back and attached to the stimulation device, which acts like a battery.
- Usually the trial SCS is worn for 3-7 days
- If the trial device is successful, the patient can have a permanent SCS device implanted.
- The simulator can be turned on and off and also adjust the intensity in order to provide optimal pain relief