Neuromodulation : journal of the International Neuromodulation Society
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Objectives. The problem of treating patients in a vegetative state remains grossly unresolved, and spinal cord stimulation (SCS) had seemed promising in some studies, suggesting, to us, further study. Materials and Methods. A prospective uncontrolled and nonrandomized observational study for 20 consecutive years (1986-2005) was performed on the effect of SCS in 214 patients in persistent vegetative state (PVS) that resulted from global anoxia and/or, stroke and/or head injury. ⋯ Results. Excellent and positive results were obtained in 109 of 201 patients (54%), but better in those patients below the age of 35, those of PVS of traumatic origin and those patients with regional cerebral blood flow over 20 mL/100 g/min. Conclusions. These findings, though inconclusive of actual benefit of SCS for PVS, indicate to us that further evidence-based, randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm efficacy of the treatment and define those who are going to benefit from this treatment method.
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Objective. This study aims to evaluate the usefulness of peripheral nerve stimulation as a treatment option for patients with chronic low back pain. Materials and Methods. More than 12 months, we collected data on consecutive patients who had successful trials and were subsequently implanted with octrode percutaneous leads placed subcutaneously within the major area of pain. Eleven patients met diagnostic criteria for failed back surgery syndrome. ⋯ Pain relief was highly correlated with reduced analgesia and patient satisfaction. No complications were reported. Conclusion. This study demonstrates a treatment option that is safe, nonpharmacologic, reversible, and effective for patients with chronic low back pain that have exhausted other treatment options.
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Objectives. This study aims to demonstrate the utility of spinal cord stimulation in a neuropathic pain syndrome and overall decline in health and functional independence following elapid envenomation in a morbidly obese, insulin-dependent diabetic. Materials and Methods. A two-lead, 16-electrode constant-current, independently controlled system is placed in the mid-cervical spine. Results. Noted were a improvement in overall health status with better glycemic control and return to work status in response to adequate pain control. Conclusions. The case serves as a model for other orphan pain cases with a seemingly esoteric etiology and adds to the existing body of literature that spinal cord stimulation and neuromodulation, in general, has a wide-ranging applicability peripheral neuropathic pain syndromes.
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Objective. This study aims to assess peripheral nerve field stimulation as a treatment option for chronic pain and test for indicators of outcome. Materials and Methods. We reviewed all patients permanently implanted with peripheral nerve field stimulators over the past 24 months. A questionnaire was used to assess outcomes. ⋯ Most patients reported decreases in analgesic use after treatment. Pain relief was significantly and highly correlated with reduced analgesic intake and patient satisfaction. Conclusion. Peripheral nerve field stimulation is a safe, reversible, and effective treatment option for patients with chronic pain, particularly those under 60 years.
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Introduction. The classic presentation of ankylosing spondylitis not only impairs spinal mobility but also imposes functional limitations, and fatigue is common. Methods. We report here the outcomes of spinal cord stimulation (SCS) in the case of a 47-year-old man with low back and hip/thigh pain due to ankylosing spondylitis, with failed responses to conservative therapies aimed at treating this pain. ⋯ SCS also resulted in improved socioeconomic outcomes with a return to work. Conclusions. With further research in patients with broader presentations of the disease, SCS may prove efficacious in suppressing intractable pain symptoms due to ankylosing spondylitis, thus improving quality of life measures.