Neuromodulation : journal of the International Neuromodulation Society
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Objective. We evaluated the efficacy of octreotide when administered in a continuous fashion by intrathecal infusion. Materials and Methods. We used a prospective, randomized, controlled, double-blinded method of analysis to evaluate the efficacy of intrathecal octreotide in a population of patients with noncancer pain diagnoses. The patients in this study had an unacceptable response to intrathecal opioids. ⋯ These patients had pain consistent with a neuropathic pain diagnosis. The patients had noncancer pain, which was not responsive to intrathecal morphine. The lack of side-effects suggests that the dose selected for the study should be increased for future analysis of this agent, and patients with neuropathic pain should be more closely examined.
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Background. Since 1988, spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has been used at Odense University Hospital for patients with refractory angina pectoris. The aim of our prospective study was to evaluate the long-term effects of SCS on pain, activities of daily living (ADLs), quality of life (QOL), sleep hygiene, and physical functioning for patients with angina pectoris. Methods. Before and after placement of SCS for patients with intractable angina pectoris, we performed structured telephone interviews questioning for pain relief, ADLs (Nottingham Health Profile), physical functioning (Seattle Angina Questionnaire) and sleep hygiene. ⋯ About 30% of patients discontinued treatment, the most common cause being electrode displacement and malfunction of the system. Other reasons for discontinued therapy were the evolvement of invasive treatment options such as coronary artery bypass graft and PTCA and use of such options in some patients during our prolonged observation period. Conclusion. This survey shows that SCS leads to a 70-80% improvement in pain, which, in turn, leads to improvement in QOL, whereas, physical condition and sleep pattern did not improve to the same extent.
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Objective. The objective of this study was to report our observations on the external electromagnetic field influences on deep brain stimulation (DBS) in our patient population and how these influences affected our patients' lives and other healthcare-related conditions. Materials and Methods. We have retrospectively analyzed data concerning the effects of external electromagnetic fields on 172 of our patients implanted with DBS. Results. Identifiable electromagnetic sources turned the implantable pulse generator (IPG) off in 20 patients. ⋯ Conclusions. External electromagnetic interference may, in rare cases, constitute a severe threat to the well-being of the patient implanted with a DBS system. Also, malfunction of a DBS system may constitute a medical emergency. Nevertheless, in spite of these external electromagnetic influences, we consider DBS to be a safe method, provided safety protocols are followed, and provided that provider awareness about potential hazards is present.