Neuromodulation : journal of the International Neuromodulation Society
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Deep brain stimulation technology now allows a choice between constant current and constant voltage stimulation, yet clinical trials comparing the two are lacking. Impedance instability would theoretically favor constant current stimulation; however, few publications address this with long-term follow-up. In this report, we review our series for impedance change and discuss our findings and their implications for future study design. ⋯ No significant change in the same electrode therapeutic impedance was identified. Given the assumption that stimulation current is the critical parameter influencing clinical outcomes, these findings would not disadvantage constant voltage stimulation. However, inter-patient variability suggests a possible advantage for constant current stimulation when generalizing experience and comparisons over multiple patients. Further study of the relationship of stimulation efficacy to stimulation mode and impedance change is warranted.
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We evaluated trends in deep brain stimulation (DBS) for the 14-year period from 1993 to 2006. ⋯ Future studies will need to include the socioeconomic impact of the technology on disease status, patient access, and costs as it expands to novel indications.
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To summarize research to understand the priorities of consumers with spinal cord injury (SCI) as related to neuroprosthesis. ⋯ Understanding the consumer is the cornerstone to successful delivery of a neuroprosthesis. Translational research by multidisciplinary teams is needed to understand these issues and move technology for people living with SCI from the bench to the bedside.
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Spinal cord stimulation devices control energy by generating either constant voltage (CV) pulses or constant current (CC) pulses. This study aimed to investigate: 1) whether patients feel differences between CV and CC stimulation; 2) if patients prefer CV or CC stimulation. ⋯ The lack of patient ability to discriminate in this preliminary investigation suggests that patient preference for a stimulation type should not be the key determining factor in choosing a spinal cord stimulation system.