Spinal Cord Stimulation

Spinal Cord Stimulation Spinal cord stimulation is a minor surgical procedure designed to treat intractable pain in specific parts of the body, by placing electrodes into the spinal canal (in the epidural space), and using electricity to modify the pain impulses within the spinal cord. This is designed to reduce painful sensations caused by a variety of medical conditions. Most frequently this technique is used for patients with failed back surgery syndrome. It is also very helpful for many patients with complex regional pain syndrome, painful neuropathies, and bladder or genital pain.

The spinal cord stimulator system consists of an array of electrodes which are connected via an insulated electrical wire, or lead, which is then connected to an implantable generator. There is a battery in the generator, and some of thebatteries are available in a rechargeable format.

The procedure is carried out in two stages:

1. The first stage is the “trial” stage, in which the electrodes are placed via a needle into the spinal canal, and are left in place for about a week, in order that the patient may test out the pain relief, while being able to do some routine activities that usually trigger pain.
2. The second stage is carried out if the trial stage was successful. This consists of placement of the generator under the skin, in the buttock, lower abdomen, or in the chest, and attaching the generator to the electrodes underneath the skin. If the first stage was notsuccessful in relieving the pain, the electrodes are simply removed.

Dr. Chakerian has been implanting spinal cord stimulators since 1994. There are three manufacturers of spinal cord stimulators in the United States (Medtronic ANS, and Boston Scientific), and Dr. Chakerian has experience with each of them.

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