Surgically implanted, this device delivers mild electrical pulses that outsmart your pain, interrupting the impulses that produce pain. Spinal cord stimulation, also called neurostimulation is a modern pain treatment option.
WHO SHOULD CONSIDER SPINAL CORD STIMULATION?
Spinal cord stimulation can be used for a variety of conditions, including back pain, nerve pain, and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). Failed back surgery syndrome is one of the most common reasons for spinal cord stimulation. Thousands of patients receive implants every year.
WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE LIKE?
Implanting the device only requires a small incision. An electrode is inserted into the skin. That electrode is then connected to a stimulator which patients can turn on or off. The stimulator, also implanted under the skin, is connected to nerves or the spinal cord. The device is implanted in an outpatient setting.
After the device is implanted, Dr. Tariq will conduct tests to make sure the pulse strength is appropriate for the patient’s condition. Patients will feel a slight tingling as the stimulation occurs.
DORSAL ROOT GANGLION (DRG) STIMULATION
The DRG is a spinal structure packed with sensory nerves that transmit information to the spinal cord, which then sends those signals to the brain. DRG Stimulation is similar to typical Spinal Cord Stimulation but stimulates the DRG for more selective targeting of pain areas that are hard to reach, such as the groin, lower leg and feet. The DRG stimulator is implanted similarly to the typical spinal cord stimulator (SCS).