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Spinal cord stimulation: a seven-year audit.
S R Sundaraj1, C Johnstone, F Noore
1Pain Management Unit, Nepean Teaching Hospital, Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia. sunderaj@bigpond.net.au
Summary
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) effectively manages chronic neuropathic pain, with over 74% of patients experiencing significant pain reduction. This treatment also improves daily activities and reduces opioid use.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pain Management
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Chronic neuropathic pain presents a significant challenge in pain management.
- Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is an established therapy for refractory neuropathic pain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the efficacy and safety of spinal cord stimulation (SCS) for chronic neuropathic pain.
- To evaluate outcomes including pain relief, functional improvement, and medication reduction in an Australian cohort.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 138 patients undergoing SCS trials between 1995 and 2002.
- Data collected included pain reduction, activities of daily living (ADLs), return to work, and opioid analgesia use.
- Clinical, psychological, demographic, and financial data were also analyzed.
Main Results:
- 74.7% of patients achieved >50% pain reduction and proceeded to permanent SCS implantation.
- At 1 year post-implantation, 84.4% maintained >50% pain reduction.
- Significant improvements were observed in ADLs (73.6%) and return to work (24%), with reduced opioid use.
Conclusions:
- Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) demonstrates effectiveness in controlling chronic neuropathic pain.
- Optimal outcomes are associated with SCS integrated into multidisciplinary pain management.
- SCS offers a valuable therapeutic option for patients with chronic neuropathic pain.