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Electrophysiological Methods to Assess Peripheral Pain Block in an Anesthetized Rat
Published on: November 21, 2025
Peripheral nerve field stimulation in chronic abdominal pain
Richard M Paicius1, Clifford A Bernstein, Cheryl Lempert-Cohen
1Newport Beach Headache and Pain Institute, 450 Newport Center Drive Suite 650, Newport Beach, CA 92660, USA. rpaicius@ocpain.com
Pain Physician
|August 4, 2006
Summary
Peripheral Nerve Field Stimulation (PNFS) offers a safe and effective solution for chronic abdominal pain. This minimally invasive technique provides significant pain relief, reducing reliance on opioid medications and improving patients' quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Neuromodulation
- Pain Management
- Minimally Invasive Procedures
Background:
- Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is established for intractable pain, particularly failed back surgery syndrome.
- Peripheral Nerve Field Stimulation (PNFS) emerges as a safe alternative for refractory chronic pain.
- Technological advancements enable percutaneous placement of leads for targeted pain relief.
Observation:
- Three patients with distinct chronic abdominal pain etiologies (inguinal neuralgia, pancreatitis, post-liver transplant) were refractory to medical management.
- All patients underwent PNFS for pain relief.
- Significant pain reduction and improved quality of life were observed in all cases.
Findings:
- PNFS provided substantial pain relief across diverse chronic abdominal pain conditions.
- Patients experienced a decrease or cessation of opioid medication use.
- Quality of life significantly improved for all treated individuals.
Implications:
- PNFS demonstrates potential for treating a broader range of chronic pain conditions than previously recognized.
- This minimally invasive approach offers a viable alternative to traditional treatments.
- PNFS may significantly enhance patient outcomes and reduce opioid dependency in chronic pain management.
