Neuromodulation : journal of the International Neuromodulation Society
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Study Design. This is a prospective study designed to identify psychological factors associated with response to spinal cord stimulation (SCS) trial. Summary of Background Data. ⋯ Conclusions. Patient mood state is an important predictor of trial outcome. Specific indicators of SCS trial outcome are the MMPI depression and mania subscale scores with successful trials being associated with individuals who are less depressed and have higher energy levels.
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Study Design. This is a retrospective study on 102 patients subjected to implantation of a spinal cord stimulation system for nonmalignant chronic pain management. The study was conducted through an extensive questionnaire and telephone interviews by a neutral third party. ⋯ Psychological screening contributed to the success of the procedure. Conclusions. With proper medical and psychological screening and with demonstrated initial pain relief, spinal cord stimulation remains an effective modality in the long-term management of severe chronic pain.
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This paper is an overview of the results of computer modeling of spinal cord stimulation, started ten years ago at the University of Twente, The Netherlands. Results are given of the analysis of various geometrical factors, including spinal anatomy, which influence the effect of spinal cord stimulation on nerve fiber recruitment and paresthesia coverage. ⋯ Two new electrode types are presented: the narrow bi-/tripole and the transverse tripole. The latter also enables adjusting the body area affected with paresthesia by means of a dual channel pulse generator giving simultaneous pulses, thereby limiting surgical interventions for electrode repositioning.