Deutsche medizinische Wochenschrift
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A new technique for the functional treatment of chronic intractable pain with a cerebral stimulation system under the patient's control is described. A four-pole electrode, diameter 0.65 mm (made by Medtronic), was implanted under stereotaxic control into nine patients. Stimulation was via a substernally implanted receiver connected to the intracerebral electrode. ⋯ The pain-suppressing effect lasted for up to seven hours, so that three stimulations for 30-40 minutes daily were sufficient, as demonstrated by an observation period of up to 21 months. The only complication was transitory oculomotor paresis. The described reversible non-destructive stereotaxic and functional technique of stimulation is preferable to the coagulation method in the treatment of chronic intractable pain.