[Neurosurgical techniques for the neuromodulation of pain]

Neuromodulation for treating pain goes back to the times of the ancient Egyptians, who applied natural electric currents to modulate the painful sensation. Since then, this concept has been developed in parallel with the scientific and technological development, and various forms of neuromodulation with different indications and characteristics have originated. Chronic pain may produce significant disability, which leads to important physical, social and psychological consequences. Peripheral nerve, spinal cord, deep brain and motor cortex stimulation are safe and effective techniques that control pain and improve quality of life in selected patients.