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Spinal Cord Stimulators
Spinal Cord Stimulation is the most technological way to achieve pain relief. It changes how you perceive pain by giving the brain feedback that decreases pain. There is a "Trial" procedure where temporary stimulator leads are inserted so you can take a few days to see if this procedure will help your pain. If it helps more than 50% of your pain and you want to have this relief permanently, the next step is surgical implantation of the "permanent" stimulator. Please see the 2 videos below.
There are 4 Spinal Stimulator manufacturers available currently in the USA. We encourage you to gather as much information as you can, then discuss with our providers which one would be best for your condition and your unique needs.
Here are links to each manufacturer for further information:
Stimulator Trial Procedure
Permanent Spinal Cord Stimulator
Implant Surgery
Spinal Stimulator Pre-op Instructions
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No eating or drinking for 8 hours prior to the scheduled procedure time
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You will be sent to “Pre Procedure Testing” with our internal medicine doctor to make sure all your body systems are healthy enough to have the procedure. The doctor will likely order testing.
Spinal Stimulator Post-op Instructions:
Post Anesthesia:
If you received anesthesia/sedation for the remainder of the day you so you should NOT make critical decisions or sign any legal documents. You should NOT consume alcohol. You should NOT drive or operate heavy machinery.
Medications:
You may be prescribed a post-operative medications, if so take as instructed. If you are on a blood thinner speak with your doctor about when to resume.
Incision Care:
If there is a dressing, you may remove it on the morning after surgery BEFORE your shower. If Surgical Glue is used expect it will slowly peel off within 14 days. Please call us with any changes or concerns such as: redness, swelling or drainage at incision site, or temperature greater than 101°. (Clear liquid drainage in the first 24 hours is normal)
Bathing:
You may shower the morning after your procedure. Avoid scrubbing the incision site for the first 7 days. No baths or swimming until approved by the physician or physician’s assistant at your follow up appointment.
Restrictions:
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No bending, lifting, or twisting for 2 months, especially important is to avoid the twisting.
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No overhead lifting
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No lifting greater than 10lbs.
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Time off of work will vary. Ask your doctor.
Exercise:
Have a “lazy” day on the day of the procedure. After 3 days you may increase your light activity, such as walking, as tolerated. Frequent short walks are good for recovery. Walking 5-10 minutes at a time to avoid clots.
Diet:
Eat a healthy diet to promote healing.
Smoking:
No smoking. Smoking can affect the rate of bone and skin healing needed to heal from this surgery.
Driving:
You may drive 7 days after the procedure if you feel okay to do so. Do not drive if you are taking pain medications.
Follow-Up:
You may have significant to intense pain over the battery site. You will have a post-operative appointment approximately 14 days after surgery. If you have not already made your follow-up appointment, call your surgeons office to make one.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our office Triage Line at 734-373-7246. If it is AFTER HOURS call the Answering service at 734-572-7418.