A spinal cord stimulator implant can provide relief for treatment-resistant pain. While choosing this route is a significant decision, it’s important to remember that these devices are not effective for everyone. This is why the treatment process begins with a trial period during which patients can test the therapy without making permanent changes. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute performs spinal cord stimulator implants and other spine procedures at locations near you in New Jersey. Here, we explain our process.
Key Takeaways
- Spinal cord stimulators are implants that emit electrical impulses to interrupt pain signals. They can provide significant relief when other treatments fail.
- Treatment begins with a trial device to determine whether stimulation provides sufficient relief.
- If the device relieves pain effectively, then it is replaced with a permanent implant that lasts for the rest of the patient’s life.
What Is a Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant?
Spinal cord stimulators are a type of medical implant that treats chronic pain. Nerves send information about sensory experiences, including pain, to the brain using tiny electrical signals. Stimulator implants interrupt these signals, preventing them from reaching the brain. This method is effective for treating a wide variety of chronic pain conditions, including back pain from:
A stimulator consists of several thin wires, called electrodes, that are placed between the spinal cord and the vertebrae. The wires are connected to a small generator or battery pack, which is placed under the skin. When the patient experiences pain, they can activate the generator using a remote control. This sends electrical impulses along the electrodes and into the spinal cord. The impulses replace the pain with a light tingling sensation called paresthesia.
Spinal cord stimulation therapy is typically used alongside other treatments, such as medication and physical therapy. Together, these methods can significantly improve a person’s sleep, everyday comfort, and quality of life, especially for pain that does not respond to other treatments.
When to Consider a Spinal Cord Stimulator
While spinal cord stimulators can relieve pain, they only address the symptom. They cannot repair back conditions at their source. For this reason, they are most often recommended as a last resort after direct treatments fail to provide relief. Most treatment plans begin with conservative methods, including activity modifications, physical therapy, and pain relief medication, followed by surgical intervention. NU-Spine offers minimally invasive spine surgeries to reduce surgical risks and accelerate recovery.
If back surgery also fails, then a spinal cord stimulator can provide significant relief. It’s important to note that insurance companies may require imaging tests and psychological screenings before approving an implant. These tests help physicians predict the effectiveness of stimulation therapy.
The Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial
Once the treatment is approved, patients begin with a trial period. This period uses a less permanent version of the implant to confirm that treatment is effective. Trial device implantation is performed by the award-winning Dr. Branko Skovrlj. The procedure takes about 30 to 60 minutes and follows these steps:
- Dr. Skovrlj applies a local anesthetic to numb the implant site.
- A single incision is made over the spine.
- Using X-ray guidance, Dr. Skovrlj places temporary electrodes along the spine. The patient may be asked for feedback to ensure the best electrode placement.
- The electrodes are connected to an external device that is worn on the patient’s back.
- The patient wears the device for about one week to evaluate how well it reduces their pain.
The trial is considered successful if the patient achieves at least a 50% reduction in pain. If it succeeds, then the trial device will be replaced with a permanent implant. If it fails, the device can be easily removed without damaging the spinal cord or nerves.
The Implantation Process
Placing a permanent implant is a more involved process. At this point, the treatment has been proven effective, so the new implant is designed to last. The procedure takes one to two hours and follows these steps:
- Dr. Skovrlj applies a local anesthetic.
- Dr. Skovrlj makes two incisions: one along the spine for the electrodes, and another on the lower abdomen or buttocks for the generator. Each incision is a few inches long.
- Again, X-ray guidance is used to place sterile electrodes along the spine. These electrodes are anchored with sutures to minimize movement.
- The generator is inserted and connected to the electrodes.
- The incisions are stitched closed and covered with a surgical dressing.
Patients can typically go home the same day as their procedure. Healing takes a few weeks while the patient gradually increases their activity level.
Schedule a Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial Near You in New Jersey
Don’t wait to find relief for treatment-resistant chronic pain. Transform your life with a touch of care at NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute. Experience the cutting edge in minimally invasive spine treatments, including spinal cord stimulator implants, delivered by world-renowned spine specialists and neurosurgeons. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward a pain-free future at one of our locations near you in New Jersey.