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903A South Greeley Highway, Cheyenne, WY 82007 Neuro Stimulation or Spinal Cord Stimulation Neuro stimulation is a safe and effective method of pain control used as an alternative to repeated back surgery or continued narcotic medication. Neuro stimulation uses a small battery powered system that is surgically placed under the skin that sends mild electronic impulses to the spinal cord or to the peripheral nerves. These electrical impulses block the pain signal from reaching the brain where pain is actually perceived, and coverage can be directed to where your pain occurs. The sensation from neuro stimulation varies between people. Most people feel a tingling sensation in the area of their pain, masking the feeling of pain. There are some who do not experience adequate relief from stimulation. Suitable candidates are determined during a screening process called a Spinal Cord Stimulator trial. During the SCS trial, Dr. Ribnik will place temporary leads in the epidural space. This is done in an outpatient setting and you will be provided with a local anesthetic or a mild sedative for comfort during your procedure. After the leads are placed, an external control is connected that allows you, Dr. Ribnik or his nurse to adjust your stimulation. If you have a successful trial period (approximately 7 days) during which you have experienced satisfactory relief or your pain, the leads are removed and you will be referred to a spine surgeon. Permanent placement of the neuro stimulator system will follow as schedules allow. The battery life of a neuro stimulator varies depending on how many hours each day the system is used, the intensity of the stimulation, and individual patient preference. Your patient programmer has a low battery indicator which will show when the battery is low. At that time you will be scheduled for placement of a new devise which is a minor outpatient procedure. Using neuro stimulation requires an positive relationship between Dr. and patient, especially as the initial settings are adjusted to achieve maximum results. You will be taught to program or adjust your own stimulation using your hand held patient programmer (within the settings Dr. Ribnik has selected.) Dr. Ribnik also requires at least one visit with a psychologist who will help determine whether this will be a successful mode of treatment. As with any invasive procedure, there are some risks involved. These risks include infection, hemorrhage, nerve damage, hardware difficulty, allergic reaction, headache, spinal cord injury or pain at the implant site. |
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