Neuromodulation : journal of the International Neuromodulation Society
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Electric Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) in the Treatment of Angina Pectoris: A Cost-Utility Analysis.
For the last 15 years electric spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has been employed in patients with confirmed ischemic heart disease who suffer from refractory angina pectoris despite maximum medical/surgical treatment. The purpose of this investigation was to assess not only the economic consequences of SCS treatment (cost-utility analysis) but also altered quality of life in SCS patients. The retrospective study includes 18 consecutive patients, six women and 12 men, with an average age of 56.5 years (range 50-68), submitted to implantation of a SCS system at Odense University Hospital. ⋯ SCS is a simple treatment for the patient to use. The implantation technique is not more invasive than permanent cardiac pacing. The decisive part of the procedure is the insertion of the electrode and follow-up with support and adjustments of the stimulation.