Surg Neurol
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A number of patients with intractable pain were subjected to electrical stimulation of the nucleus ventralis posterolateralis. Positive results obtained support the theory according to which pain is caused by lack of proprioceptive stimuli reaching the thalamus. The implantation technique is discussed and improvements of electrodes and of the device are proposed. Optimal stimulation parameters are defined.
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Twenty-three patients underwent implantation of a stimulator system and were followed for 6-20 months. Twenty patients estimated between 50% and 100% pain relief. ⋯ Reduced drug intake and improved social performance were associated with subjective improvement. The surgical technique is given, complications are analyzed and parameters are discussed.