Neuromodulation : journal of the International Neuromodulation Society
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Sacroiliac joint (SIJ) dysfunction is a significant contributing factor in 10-30% of individuals with lower back pain. However, definitive diagnostic methods and treatments are still controversial. ⋯ Sacral nerve stimulation with a percutaneous retrograde cephalocaudal approach is considered to be a useful therapeutic option in the treatment of intractable SIJ dysfunction.
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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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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.