Spinal Cord Stimulator Risks

Medical technology seems to be progressing at a staggering rate. So many devices have been made to help with a huge number of individuals. One such device is call a spinal cord stimulator, neurostimulator. According to the Boston Scientific, this treatment option has been around for more than 40 years, helping one to control pain and work toward getting off certain medications. While there are many positive benefits, there are also inherent risks with any surgery, especially surgeries that tend to be more invasive.

History

• At manufacturer Medtronic, there have been over 30 years of "collaboratively working with physicians and patients in neurotsimulation...and more than 250,000 patients implanted." Medtronic has become a leader in manufacturing neurostimulators, and was first founded in 1949 by Earl Bakkan. Bakkan was a graduate student in electrical engineering.

Neurostimulator Uses

• Neurostimulators, according to Spine Universe, have been found to treat chronic pain. Treatments may be necessary if other surgical treatments have failed or some surgeries have not been appropriate for the patient. It is also possible for surgery if there has been a successful trial period. In order to help treat various types of pain, a patient undergoes a temporary implantation to find if one is a candidate.

Parts and Implantation

• A permanent neurostimulator has a number of important parts that work together in order to provide adequate care. To begin with, a lead is surgically implanted and attached to the spinal cord near the area where the pain is generating. This could vary from the top to the bottom of the spine depending on the patient. The lead connects to a generator which is placed just under the skin. The generator gives off electrical pulses released up onto the leads to help diminish pain. Lastly, there is a patient controller that controls settings such as intensity and frequency.

Stimulator Risks

• Because there are a number of parts used on the stimulator, there are risks of those parts malfunctioning. Neurostimulation surgery is invasive, because of dealing with spine. Spine Universe states that some risks can include infection, bleeding and headache. There are also inherent risks involved during surgery including reactions to the anesthesia, formation of a blood clots and the possibility of death.

Considerations

• The neurstimulator is a big step in pain relief. Depending on a patients needs, the stimulator may be an appropriate choice. For others, different pain control methods may be best. For those considering the spinal cord stimulator, open contact with a physician and research can help make the right choice. The surgery is invasive, yet it may still be a great choice.