Neuromodulation : journal of the International Neuromodulation Society
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Objective. This study aims to evaluate the usefulness of peripheral nerve stimulation as a treatment option for patients with chronic low back pain. Materials and Methods. More than 12 months, we collected data on consecutive patients who had successful trials and were subsequently implanted with octrode percutaneous leads placed subcutaneously within the major area of pain. Eleven patients met diagnostic criteria for failed back surgery syndrome. ⋯ Pain relief was highly correlated with reduced analgesia and patient satisfaction. No complications were reported. Conclusion. This study demonstrates a treatment option that is safe, nonpharmacologic, reversible, and effective for patients with chronic low back pain that have exhausted other treatment options.
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Objectives. This study aims to demonstrate the utility of spinal cord stimulation in a neuropathic pain syndrome and overall decline in health and functional independence following elapid envenomation in a morbidly obese, insulin-dependent diabetic. Materials and Methods. A two-lead, 16-electrode constant-current, independently controlled system is placed in the mid-cervical spine. Results. Noted were a improvement in overall health status with better glycemic control and return to work status in response to adequate pain control. Conclusions. The case serves as a model for other orphan pain cases with a seemingly esoteric etiology and adds to the existing body of literature that spinal cord stimulation and neuromodulation, in general, has a wide-ranging applicability peripheral neuropathic pain syndromes.
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Intrathecal drug delivery device infection with Mycobacterium fortuitum has not been reported previously. We report a case of an implanted baclofen pump infection and associated mycobacterium meningitis due to Mycobacterium fortuitum. The entire pump system was removed and the patient was treated successfully with a prolonged regimen of antibiotics.
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Objectives. Theoretic modeling and experimental studies suggest that functional electrical stimulation (FES) can improve trunk balance in spinal cord injured subjects. This can have a positive impact on daily life, increasing the volume of bimanual workspace, improving sitting posture, and wheelchair propulsion. A closed loop controller for the stimulation is desirable, as it can potentially decrease muscle fatigue and offer better rejection to disturbances. ⋯ In contrast, previous studies show that able-bodied subjects can exert maximal trunk extension when flexed forward. Conclusions. The proposed model and identification procedure are a successful first step toward the development of a model-based controller for trunk FES. The model also gives information on the trunk in unique conditions, normally not observable in able-bodied subjects (ie, subject only to extensor muscles contraction).