Neuromodulation : journal of the International Neuromodulation Society
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Redefining Spinal Cord Stimulation "Trials": A Randomized Controlled Trial Using Single-Stage Wireless Permanent Implantable Devices.
"Traditional" spinal cord stimulation (SCS) trials with percutaneous electrodes externalized to a pulse generator (PG) are typically limited in duration due to risk of infection. Newer miniaturized wireless SCS technology eliminates the percutaneous extension (as well as PGs implanted for chronic use), thus facilitating a single-stage implantation after which the device can remain indefinitely. ⋯ Using wireless SCS devices that allow for an extended trial period and evaluation of various waveforms, we observed a high rate trial success rate with both HFS and LFS waveforms, with minimal incidence of infection. Long-term follow-up will address the cost-effectiveness and morbidity associated with this technology, which facilitates single-stage treatment.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study
Outcomes of a Multicenter, Prospective, Crossover, Randomized Controlled Trial Evaluating Subperception Spinal Cord Stimulation at ≤1.2 kHz in Previously Implanted Subjects.
The WHISPER randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluates safety and clinical effectiveness of subperception spinal cord stimulation (SCS) at ≤1.2 kHz in subjects previously implanted with an SCS system for treatment of chronic, neuropathic pain. ⋯ Subperception SCS at ≤1.2 kHz is safe and effective in subjects with extreme physical disability and previously implanted for chronic pain. Further, by providing study participants with different waveform options, increased pain relief was achieved.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study Comparative Study
Comparison of Neural Activity in Chronic Pain Patients During Tonic and Burst Spinal Cord Stimulation Using Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography.
Burst spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a novel stimulation paradigm that seems to provide better pain relief compared to the classic tonic SCS with minimal paresthesia sensation. Based on source localized electroencephalography and clinical data, it has been proposed that burst stimulation as defined by Dirk De Ridder exerts this greater effect by not only modulating the lateral and the descending pain-inhibitory pathways (similar to tonic SCS) but also modulating the medial pain pathway, which encodes the affective, motivational aspects of pain. ⋯ Dr. Yearwood, Dr. De Ridder, Dr. Falowski, and Dr. Vanneste are the consultants of Abbott. Dr. Venkatesan is an employee of Abbott. Hye Bin Yoo and Dr. Wing Ting To have no conflicts of interest to report.
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Review Case Reports
Spinal Cord Stimulation for Management of Pain in Chronic Pancreatitis: A Systematic Review of Efficacy and Complications.
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has been used to manage pain in patients with chronic pancreatitis (CP). The aim of this systematic review was to summarize the effectiveness and complications of SCS in the management of pain associated with CP. ⋯ This systematic review suggests that SCS has a potentially efficacious role in reducing pain and opioid use in patients with CP.
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Observational Study
Predictors of Reduced Opioid Use With Spinal Cord Stimulation in Patients With Chronic Opioid Use.
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has gained traction as an alternative to chronic opioid therapy in light of the opioid crisis. Prior reports vary widely in their estimates of its effect on opioid consumption. We therefore aimed to address the following questions: 1) Does chronic opioid use change after SCS? 2) Which patient characteristics predict reduced opioid consumption after SCS? ⋯ With only half of chronic opioid users demonstrating meaningful opioid reduction after SCS implantation, we demonstrate that current SCS technology does not reliably help a larger number of patients reduce opioid usage. Women, older age, and preoperative MED < 65 are predictive of meaningful opioid reduction but only one of these is modifiable. As not all patients saw benefit from their therapies, there is still much room for improvement in the treatment of refractory chronic pain that is associated with failed back surgery syndrome and chronic regional pain syndrome.