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Spinal Cord Stimulation


Why is this procedure done?


Spinal cord stimulation is also called SCS. It can lessen some types of long term pain. With SCS, the doctor puts small wires called leads near the spinal cord in the area where you are having pain. The leads connect to a device that sends a small electrical current through the leads directly to the nerve fibers. This current disrupts the signal sent to your brain and replaces the feeling of pain with a tingling sensation. ‚  
There are 2 stages for the spinal cord stimulator procedure. ‚  
  • Trial stage ¢ ˆ ’ Your doctor will place leads in your back. The leads connect to a stimulator that is on the outside of your body. The current from the stimulator goes through the leads into your body. The trial stage gives you the chance to try different settings on the stimulator to see which works best on your pain. You will be able to decide if your pain is improved and if you are comfortable with the tingling. If it seems to be helping, your doctor may put in a permanent SCS device.
  • Permanent SCS ¢ ˆ ’ Your doctor will place the leads and the stimulator under your skin through small cuts. Your SCS will have some kind of power source. Some are rechargeable. Others are replaced after 5 to 10 years. Another kind has a power source that is outside of your skin.

What will the results be?


Your SCS may help lower your pain levels. You may be able to take fewer pain drugs to ease your pain. You may be able to do more activity with a lower pain level. ‚  

What happens before the procedure?


  • Your doctor will take your history. Talk to the doctor about:
    • All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription, over the counter, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor if you have any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
    • Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some of these are: Coumadin, ibuprofen, Aleve (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about them.
    • If you need to stop eating and drinking before your procedure.
    • If you smoke or drink beer, wine, and mixed drinks (alcohol). Be sure to tell your doctor. You may need to stop smoking and drinking alcohol.
  • You will not be allowed to drive right away after the procedure. Ask a family member or a friend to drive you home.

What happens during the procedure?


Trial stage ‚  
  • The doctor will numb your back to place the leads. You may also be given a drug to help you relax.
  • Your doctor will place the wires through a needle into the space around your spinal cord. The other end of the wires connects to the stimulator. The stimulator is outside of your body.
  • The doctor adjusts the stimulator to send the pulses of electricity through the wires to block your feelings of pain.
  • This takes about an hour.

Permanent SCS ‚  
  • Once you are in the operating room, the staff will put an I.V. in your arm to give you fluids and drugs. You will receive a drug to make you sleepy. It will also help you stay pain free during the surgery.
  • Sometimes, the doctor will give you a special drug to make you numb for the surgery. Other times, you are completely asleep.
  • The doctor removes the leads from the trial SCS if they are present.
  • New leads are placed through a small cut or a needle under the skin. One end of the leads is near your spinal cord. The other end of the leads connects to the stimulator.
  • Your doctor will make another small cut to place the stimulator. The stimulator most often goes in your belly or in your upper butt area.
  • Your doctor will check to make sure everything is working, close all of your cuts, and cover them with bandages.
  • This takes 1 to 2 hours.

What happens after the procedure?


  • You will go to the Recovery Room and the staff will watch you closely.
  • Within a short time, you will get out of bed to a chair. The staff will help you begin to walk around.
  • You may have to stay in the hospital overnight or you may be able to go home the same day.
  • Your doctor will give instructions to not bend, lift heavy objects, or twist while healing.
  • Light exercise, such as walking, may help to build strength and relieve pain.

What drugs may be needed?


The doctor may order drugs to: ‚  
  • Help with pain
  • Prevent infection
  • Soften stool

What problems could happen?


  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Paralysis or weakness
  • Worse pain or no pain relief
  • Problems with the stimulator or leads
  • Allergic reaction
  • Spinal fluid leakage
  • Headache

Where can I learn more?


American Association of Neurological Surgeons ‚  
https://www.aans.org/Patient%20Information/Conditions%20and%20Treatments/Spinal%20Cord%20Stimulation.aspx ‚  

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer


This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚  

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