Spinal cord stimulation: a basic approach.
Chronic back pain and other refractory pain syndromes are a documented burden on our society. They also are a huge cost in quality of life and dollars spent on health care. Neuromodulation and specifically dorsal column stimulation of the spinal cord has been shown to decrease pain with minimal risk to the patient. We describe in this article the basic techniques and methods of both the stimulation trial and the permanent implantation of the leads and generator. With advanced imaging and the minimally invasive approach we further explain how to minimize any risk associated with this percutaneous procedure.
Brook
Allan L
AL
Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10467-2490, USA. abrook2214@aol.com
Georgy
Bassem A
BA
Olan
Wayne J
WJ
D001416:Back Pain / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D004599:Electric Stimulation Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D013116:Spinal Cord