Spinal Cord Stimulators Overland Park, Kansas
Treatments & ProceduresSpinal cord stimulation (SCS) typically involves implanting an electronic device in the body to help relieve chronic back and leg pain. The device, called a “spinal cord stimulator” or “dorsal column stimulator,” sends electrical impulses through wires/electrodes placed near the spinal cord; the impulses block pain signals from reaching the brain. SCS does not cure chronic pain, but usually lessens it by 50 percent and more by replacing a patient’s feeling of pain with a tingling sensation. Before implantation, a patient is asked to go through a trial period with an external device; this allows pain levels to be evaluated, and determine whether they decrease when the device is used.
Candidates For Spinal Cord Stimulation
Not everyone is a candidate for SCS. It is an option only for those who have tried, but been unsuccessful with, conservative treatments; will likely not be helped by surgery; are not addicted to drugs; have been psychologically evaluated; do not have pacemakers; and have undergone trials with an external spinal-cord stimulator.
Recovery From The Spinal-Cord-Stimulation Implantation Process
Pain from SCS implantation is treated with prescription medication and/or over-the-counter painkillers. A patient should refrain from lifting, bending, twisting and stretching during the healing process, which can take 6 to 8 weeks.
The Spinal-Cord-Stimulation Implantation Process
To implant the pulse generator, an incision is made in the buttocks or abdomen, and the generator is placed between layers of skin and muscle. An extension wire is run from the spine to whichever area the generator is placed in.
Incisions are closed with either staples or sutures. The procedure takes 3 or 4 hours, and the patient usually goes home on the same day.
Risks And Complications Of Spinal Cord Stimulation
In addition to the risks associated with any surgical procedure, those related to SCS include spinal-fluid leakage and paralysis. Complications related specifically to the stimulator include the following:
- Device works only intermittently or stops
- Device causes over-stimulation, or unpleasant sensations
- Stimulation occurs in the wrong place
- Device causes an allergic reaction
The pulse generator’s battery, if it is a standard one, needs to be surgically replaced every 2 to 5 years, although there are generators that run on rechargeable batteries that can last up to 10.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still get an MRI if I have a spinal cord stimulator?
It depends on the device. Some spinal cord stimulators are MRI-conditional, meaning MRI scans can be performed only under specific conditions.
How are the device's settings adjusted after implantation?
That happens during follow-up visits at our Overland Park office, either with a device representative or a member of our clinical team, based on how you’ve been responding since implantation.
Is the device removable if it doesn't work well for me?
Yes. If it’s not working out for you, it can be removed surgically.
When can I get back to exercise or sports after implantation?
Plan on several weeks before jumping back into anything strenuous. Our team will let you know when you’re ready based on how you’re healing.
How do I control the stimulator day-to-day?
A small handheld remote does the job, turning the device on and off and adjusting intensity as needed.
What follow-up visits are scheduled after implantation?
Typically there are a few visits in the weeks after surgery to check the incision and adjust your device settings as needed.