Neuromodulation : journal of the International Neuromodulation Society
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Lead fracture is a common and troublesome hardware-related complication in deep brain stimulation therapy. Frequent cervical movements are suspected as the main cause, but the underlying mechanisms are still unclear. We propose the integrity of the helical structure of the lead wires is important and conduct systematic experiments to demonstrate this. We aim to provide a new view on how lead fracture takes place. ⋯ We demonstrate that integrity of the helical structure of the wires is crucial to the fatigue performance of the lead. Although the results cannot be directly extrapolated to human subjects, they suggest a possible lead fracture mechanism. The implanted lead may undergo deformation due to large-amplitude motions (e.g., falls) and develop fracture due to the deterioration in fatigue resistance, especially when it is placed at or migrates to the neck. It may be possible to effectively protect the lead by using certain surgical techniques during implantation, such as placing the connector on the calvaria or in a drilled trough at the retroauricular region with reliable fixation.
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The purpose of this study is to determine the impact of repetitive transcranial stimulation (rTMS) treatment during pregnancy on neurodevelopment of children. ⋯ Our results suggest that rTMS exposure during pregnancy is not associated with poorer cognitive or motor development outcomes in children aged 18-62 months. Although language development as reported by the mothers was found to be poorer than expected in the rTMS-treated group, the delay was found to be similar to the language delay observed in offspring of untreated mothers, as reported in previous studies of prenatal depression treated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.
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Central poststroke pain is a serious problem for some patients after stroke. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has been reported to relieve poststroke pain but its efficacy is still controversial. We tested the possibility that rTMS, when applied once a week, would induce sustainable relief of poststroke pain. ⋯ Although this was an open-label study without a control group, our findings suggest that rTMS of the primary motor cortex, when maintained once a week, could help to relieve poststroke pain.
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The field of neuromodulation continues to grow, especially in the area of pain management. Percutaneous nerve field stimulation continues to gain significant popularity for chronic, focal, and intractable neuropathic pain. ⋯ The great adaptability of this system allows for implantation of electrodes subcutaneously with efficacy and ease. Here we present a technical note on the use of this system for subcutaneous implantation of peripheral nerve field stimulators.
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The purpose of this study was to determine the blood-flow-enhancing effect of electroacupuncture (EA) in an experimental rat model of testicular torsion. ⋯ EA can improve testicular blood flow bilaterally in a rat model of unilateral testicular torsion at 180°.