As with any surgical procedure there are some risks. However, these are very rare if the procedure is done properly. Risk of bleeding, infection can occur as well as other rare risks. These should be discussed in person with Dr. Baidey so he may answer any questions you may have. In addition to any questions you may have about benefit and/or alternatives.
Neuro-Stimulator/Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant
Nerve modulation techniques have been used successfully for a few decades. Spinal cord stimulation is one of the nerve modulation techniques for spinal pain..
The Spinal Cord Stimulator, also known as a Dorsal Column Stimulator, is a device that consists of implanted electrodes and a surgically implantable pulse generator producing low-level electrical impulses delivered directly to the spinal cord.
Electrical wires are inserted into the spinal canal, stimulating the spinal cord, which is the center for pain transmission. The spinal cord stimulator produces electrical impulses that interfere with the direct transmission of any pain signals traveling along the spinal cord to the brain. Painful spinal cord stimulation is then replaced with a more pleasing tingling sensation in the areas where pain is usually felt.
A spinal cord stimulator is typically given to people whose have treatment resistant lower extremity pain, or who have pain caused by diabetic neuropathy or peripheral vascular diseases. A spine stimulator is also widely used for intractable angina in European countries, but not in the US.
While the patient is under anesthesia, an electrical pulse generator is implanted under the skin of the belly (abdomen) or buttock, and the small coated wires (leads) are inserted into the spinal canal.
Conditions Commonly Treated With a Spinal Cord Stimulator
Spinal cord stimulation is often used to treat persistent or chronic lower back or neck pain caused by the following conditions:
- Failed spinal surgery
- Severe nerve-related pain or numbness
- Chronic pain syndromes, such as reflex sympathetic dystrophy
Dr. Baidey is a leading implant specialist who has performed well over 2000 implants over the coarse of his career. Often times, he is the surgeon other physicians go to correct lead migration or other issues with neuro-stim that arise from poor implantation technique or patients who are difficult implants due to severe scoliosis or scar tissue.