2010-07-31T23:05:37Z http://blog.rosenblumpain.com/atom.aspx Quick Blogcast tag:blog.rosenblumpain.com,2008-04-22:a54eab86-dc27-4e94-beb9-ee0c28a4d90d DrR6 2008-04-22T15:14:00Z 2008-04-22T15:14:00Z Spinal cord stimulators are being used more and more frequently to manage back pain and nerve pain resistant to treatment.&nbsp; The device works by passing an electrical current through the dorsal horn of the spinal cord.&nbsp; This, in effect, creates a pleasant sensation in the painful area.&nbsp; It acts like a TENS unit inside the body. <BR><BR>What is the protocol?<BR><BR>First, a trial is performed.&nbsp; An epidural needle is used to insert the wire into the epidural space.&nbsp; Once the sensation occurs in the painful are, the wire is secured to the skin and connected to an external pulse generator/battery.&nbsp; The patient goes home and tests out the device for a few days.&nbsp; If the patient is satisfied, with the result (over a 50% decrease in pain score-for most patients), then a small IPG (battery/pusle generator) is inserted into the subcutaneous fascia.&nbsp; Most patients can go home the next day.<BR><BR>The company representative then usually educates the patient on its uses.