Everything You Need To Know About Spinal Cord Stimulator Treatment
A spinal cord stimulator is an implanted device designed to treat chronic pain and spinal cord injury. The device provides a nonpharmacological approach to different pain conditions. Stimulators are used for the treatment of both ischemic and neuropathic pain. On this page, we will discuss spinal cord stimulator in detail, such as what is spinal cord stimulator, how to prepare for spinal cord stimulator implantation, what are the complications of spinal cord stimulator, what is the cost of spinal cord stimulator in India, which are the best hospitals for spinal cord stimulator in India, and who are the top spinal cord stimulator doctor in India.
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What is spinal cord stimulator?
A spinal cord stimulator (SCS) also called dorsal column stimulators, is a device which can be implant in the body to treat chronic pain. These devices are available in several types, and could be an effective alternative to other forms of treatment. This small device is similar to a pacemaker and works by delivering electrical pulses to the spinal cord. This medical device is surgically placed below the skin and transmits a mild electric current to the spinal cord. Thin wires are used to carry current from the pulse generator to nerve fibers of your spinal cord. When the best spinal cord stimulator is turned on, it stimulates the nerves in the area where pain is experienced. There is reduction in pain as the electrical pulses mask the pain signal from reaching the brain. Stimulation doesn’t eliminate the source of pain but simply alters the way your brain perceives it. The amount of pain relief may vary for each individual. The aim for SCS is a 50-70% reduction in pain. Recent clinical research indicates that epidural spinal cord stimulation shows promise in helping to rehabilitate lower limb function and other neurological abilities in individuals with spinal cord injuries which often cause lasting difficulties with movement, sensation, and automatic bodily functions.
Types of spinal cord stimulator implant
Conventional implantable pulse generator: This is a battery-operated spinal code stimulator in which a battery is inserted in the spine during surgery. When the battery runs out, it needs to be replaced using another surgery. The device could be a good choice for people facing pain in just one body part as the device has a lower electrical output. There are multiple companies which produce spinal cord stimulator implants but Medtronic spinal cord stimulator, Boston scientific scs and St Jude spinal cord stimulator are best choices.
Radiofrequency stimulator: This device uses a battery that remains outside the body. The stimulator is not so commonly used because of modern designs and better technology. The device has a rechargeable battery and may be better for individuals with pain in the legs and lower back.
Rechargeable implantable pulse generator: This device works like the conventional device. The difference is that the battery could be recharged without requiring another surgery. As the energy source is rechargeable, these devices can generate more electricity. This might be a better choice for individuals with pain in one or both legs or in the lower back.
Causes and Symptoms
Causes
- Muscle or ligament strain
- Bulging or ruptured disks
- Arthritis, Peripheral Neuropathy & Arachnoiditis
- Spinal Cord Injury
- Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS)
- Chronic Back Pain & Neuropathic Pain
Symptoms
- Chronic pain
- Nerve damage
- Stooped posture
- Reduced range of motion
- Swelling & Stiffness
- Radiating Pain
- Numbness and Tingling
- Muscle Weakness
- Burning Sensation
Diagnosis
X-ray: X-ray images show broken bones and arthritis. The images alone may not show problems with the muscles, spinal cord, nerves or disks.
MRI or CT scans: These scans can produce images that can detect heiated disks or issues with bones, ligaments, muscles, tissue, tendons, nerves and blood vessels.
Blood tests: These tests will help determine whether an infection or any other condition may be causing consistent pain.
Nerve studies: Electromyography helps measure electrical impulses produced by your nerves and how the muscles are able to respond to them. The test can detect pressure on the nerves due to heiated disks or narrowing of your spinal canal caused by spinal stenosis.
Electromyography: EMG testing of nerves help localize site of compression and other neural pathology.
Risk & Complications
Infection: A common risk with spinal cord stimulation devices is infection. The risk remains because spinal cord stimulation will involve placing a medical device inside the body. If there is an infection around the implanted device, you might need surgery for treating the infection. Sometimes, surgery may be needed to remove the generator and leads.
Leads moving out of position: This complication is rare due to recent advances in medical technology. Now a days, there are special devices available that can hold spinal cord stimulation leads, minimizing any risk of them moving out of place.
Leads malfunctioning or breaking: The vertebrae and the related connective tissues might flex and bend. In certain cases, the hardware of the lead may not match the flexibility, leading to the leads to break or malfunction. That will require surgery to correct.
Injuries from broken/displaced leads: When the hardware of the spinal cord stimulator breaks or is displaced, it may damage the spinal cord or the nearby tissues. In some severe cases, it can permanently damage the spinal cord or adjacent nerves.
Best Doctors for Spinal Cord Stimulator Treatment
Dr. Sudhir Dubey
28+ Yrs. Exp.MBBS, MCh (Neurosurgery)Chairman - Endoscopic Portal Minimal Invasive NeurosurgeryBest Hospitals for Spinal Cord Stimulator Treatment
Plot No. 1, Sector 10 Dwarka, Dwarka, Delhi, 110075 
Cost of the treatment
Cost of spinal cord stimulator implantation
Spinal cord stimulator cost in India varies between $8055 and $10740. Patient will have to stay in the hospital for around 2 days. The total cost of spinal cord stimulator in India depends on the health status of the person, type of device used, experience of the doctor, diagnosis and facilities opted by the patient. The cost of spinal cord stimulator in India is much affordable compared to several other countries.
Recovery
Recovery after spinal cord stimulator implantation
Most patients can leave the hospital after 2 days of the procedure. For a few days after surgery, the incisions might be painful. Try not to twist or stretch as these could pull at the incisions. Dressings will be done on the incision sites, which may be removed after nearly 3 days. In most of the cases, incisions will heal in about 2 to 4 weeks after surgery. You need to involve in lighter activities for about 2 weeks after the surgery. After the surgeon tells you to do regular activities, you can return to your work and drive again. This will be typically possible 1-2 weeks after surgery. Recovery after spinal cord stimulator implant will depend on the patient's health condition and compliance with the post-surgical protocols.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spinal Cord Stimulator
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