A Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial is a minimally invasive procedure that is used to treat chronic pain. The trial is a device that uses a low voltage stimulator that blocks the feeling of pain that goes into the brain. This device helps so patients can reduce or even stop using pain medication to relieve their pain. The device uses a small battery that generates electrical current that interrupts the pain signals going to the brain. Many patients have shown signs of pain relief when using a spinal stimulator device. Now, the spinal stimulator implant does not eliminate the source of the pain. It just interferes with the pain signals being sent to the brain. The device’s goal is to reduce 50-70% of the pain.
What to Expect?
The spinal cord stimulator trial is a great way to reduce pain for patients who do not want to take pain medications and avoid major back surgery. Patients who have tried conservative therapy, do not want surgery, gone through epidural steroid injections, do not want more surgery, do not want more medication, or have drug addictions should consider getting a spinal stimulator trial for their back pain. Patients should expect that they will use this device as a “test drive” to see if a more permanent device which is a permanent spinal stimulator will work.
Patients who get recommended for the procedure should expect the in office procedure to last about one hour. One of our board certified Neurosurgeons will place temporary leads to the back. The trial is an external device to test if the permanent solution is viable.
How long does it last?
The Spinal Stimulator Trial lasts for up to a week. During this time, you will follow back up with the nursing staff to see how the spinal stimulator trial is working out. Patients will be asked to note if the device is effective in treating back pain. The main goal to see if a permanent solution works is if the pain is reduced by more than 50%. This way, patients can get back to their daily activities, rest better, and reduce the need for pain medication. If the pain reduction does not work, the spinal stimulator trial will be removed and our Spinal Surgeons will have to recommend other paths of treatment. Most patients generally get a 50-70% reduction in pain.
How does it work?
The spine surgeon inserts a needle into the epidural space near where the pain signals are being sent to your brain. When the needle is in position, leads will be installed into the epidural space. The leads are then connected to a spinal stimulator. The electrodes are then installed. The neurostimulator is then taped onto your back. The doctor will then give you a handheld device that will be able to control the neurostimulator. During the process, it is important to log and keep a record of the pain relief so the surgeon can better make a decision on your treatment.
Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial Success Rate
The success rate of the spinal stimulator trial varies based on individual patient factors, underlying conditions causing the pain, and the specific criteria used to define “success.” However, a general overview of success rates includes:
- General Efficacy:
- Many studies have shown that a significant proportion of patients (often between 60% to 80%) who undergo the trial phase report a notable reduction in pain, typically defined as a 50% or more decrease in pain levels.
- Predictive Value:
- The trial’s primary purpose is predictive. If a patient experiences significant pain relief during the trial phase, they are likely to benefit from the permanent implantation of the SCS device. Therefore, a successful trial is an excellent indicator of potential success with the full implantation.
- Factors Influencing Outcome:
- The expertise of the medical team, precise placement of the trial leads, the specific type and programming of the SCS device, and the patient’s underlying condition can all impact the trial’s outcome.
- Post-trial Analysis:
- Success is not just determined by pain reduction. Improvements in sleep, mobility, general activity levels, and decreased reliance on pain medications are also considered when evaluating the trial’s success.
- Future Implications:
- A successful trial is a green light for many practitioners and patients to proceed with the permanent implantation of the spinal stimulator. However, even with a successful trial, there is no 100% guarantee that the permanent system will yield the same results, though it is highly indicative.
