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Published on: June 26, 2018
Spinal cord stimulators and radiotherapy: first case report and practice guidelines
Lorraine Walsh1, Daipayan Guha, Thomas G Purdie
1Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Hospital, University Health Network, 610 University Avenue, Toronto M5G2M9, Ontario, Canada.
Radiation Oncology (London, England)
|October 26, 2011
Summary
Spinal cord stimulators (SCS) can be damaged by radiation therapy. This case study details managing a patient with an SCS undergoing breast radiotherapy, offering practical recommendations for radiation oncology departments.
Area of Science:
- Neuromodulation
- Radiation Oncology
- Pain Management
Background:
- Spinal cord stimulators (SCS) are established treatments for chronic neuropathic pain, including failed back syndrome and radiculopathies.
- The implantable pulse generator (IPG) in SCS functions similarly to a cardiac pacemaker and may be vulnerable to radiation.
- Ionizing radiation from linear accelerators used in radiotherapy poses a potential risk to SCS IPGs.
Observation:
- This report details the clinical management of the first documented case of a patient with an indwelling SCS requiring adjuvant breast radiotherapy.
- The patient's SCS was in situ during the radiotherapy treatment course.
Findings:
- The study presents a unique clinical scenario involving a patient with an SCS undergoing radiotherapy.
- Successful management strategies were employed to address the co-existing conditions.
Implications:
- Provides crucial clinical insights for managing patients with SCS who require radiotherapy.
- Offers practical recommendations for radiation oncology departments to ensure safe and effective patient care.
- Highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in complex patient cases.