Neuromodulation : journal of the International Neuromodulation Society
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The analgesic effect of electroacupuncture (EA) stimulation has been proved. However, its mechanism of action is not clear. It has been well-known that cholecystokinin-8 (CCK-8) is a neuropeptide which is mainly related to the mediation of pain. The caudate nucleus was selected to determine if the release of CCK and the neural activity in this nucleus were involved in producing EA analgesia. ⋯ Our results suggest that CCK-8 antagonize EA analgesia through its B receptor.
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Spinal cord stimulation with percutaneous leads after loss of coverage with implanted surgical lead.
This case report presents an application of percutaneous spinal cord stimulation to a patient with complex regional pain syndrome type 1 involving the bilateral lower extremities with loss of coverage with surgical lead. ⋯ Percutaneous spinal cord stimulation offers an alternative treatment option for the patient with loss of coverage with surgical lead.
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We describe our technique and experience with subcapsular placement of the Interstim (Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN, USA) pulse generator in cases of revision for implant site pain. ⋯ Five patients have undergone the technique described with successful resolution of their pain. Conclusions Utilizing the capsule presumably improves defects in skin microcirculation, but also creates additional cushion superior to the pulse generator, helping to counteract the vertical mechanical forces of the pulse generator.
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Objective. To clarify the efficacy of subthalamic nucleus (STN) stimulation in young-onset Parkinson's disease (PD), we compared the effects of STN stimulation on the motor symptoms between young-onset PD (YOPD) and late-onset PD (LOPD). Methods. We analyzed the effects of STN stimulation on motor function and motor fluctuations in 15 patients with YOPD, and 113 patients with LOPD who underwent STN stimulation during the same period. The Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) was evaluated during the on-period and off-period, which are defined as the times at which the motor symptoms are the best and worst during the daily active time with sustaining anti-parkinsonian drugs. ⋯ Conclusions. STN stimulation can reduce the LED and improve motor fluctuations in patients with YOPD. The effects of STN stimulation on the motor symptoms of YOPD patients are superior to those in LOPD. The present findings suggest that YOPD patients suffering from several problems related to pharmacological therapy are probably good candidates for STN stimulation.