Neuromodulation : journal of the International Neuromodulation Society
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Pain treatment is best performed when a patient-centric, safety-based philosophy is used to determine an algorithmic process to guide care. Since 2007, the International Neuromodulation Society has organized a group of experts to evaluate evidence and create a Polyanalgesic Consensus Conference (PACC) to guide practice. ⋯ New algorithms and guidance have been established to improve care with the use of intrathecal drug delivery.
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Multicenter Study
Can Cerebrospinal Fluid Pressure Detect Catheter Complications in Patients Who Experience Loss of Effectiveness With Intrathecal Baclofen Therapy?
The catheter status of patients who presented with loss of intrathecal baclofen (ITB) therapy effectiveness was investigated using measurements of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure transmitted through the catheter fluid path to the pump. The aim of the study was to estimate the appropriate threshold separating catheter complications from "normal" catheter function, and to compare catheter status based on CSF pressure with the clinical diagnosis. ⋯ In-clinic CSF pressure data acquisition is technically feasible. Overall, catheter status based on the algorithm demonstrated concordance with the clinical diagnosis in 29 of 37 patients (78.4%).
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The Neurostimulation Appropriateness Consensus Committee (NACC) was formed by the International Neuromodulation Society (INS) in 2012 to evaluate the evidence to reduce the risk of complications and improve the efficacy of neurostimulation. The first series of papers, published in 2014, focused on the general principles of appropriate practice in the surgical implantation of neurostimulation devices. The NACC was reconvened in 2014 to address specific patient care issues, including bleeding and coagulation. ⋯ The NACC has recommended specific measures to reduce the risk of bleeding and neurological injury secondary to impairment of coagulation in the setting of implantable neurostimulation devices in the spine, brain, and periphery.
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The use of neurostimulation for pain has been an established therapy for many decades and is a major tool in the arsenal to treat neuropathic pain syndromes. Level I evidence has recently been presented to substantiate the therapy, but this is balanced against the risk of complications of an interventional technique. ⋯ Adhering to established standards can improve patient care and reduce the morbidity and mortality of infectious complications in patients receiving neurostimulation.