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Published on: December 22, 2020
Some Non-FDA Approved Uses for Neuromodulation: A Review of the Evidence
Samuel Lee1, Alaa Abd-Elsayed2
1University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, U.S.A.
Introduction:
Neuromodulation, including spinal cord stimulation and peripheral nerve field stimulation, has been used with success in treating several painful conditions. The FDA approved the use of neuromodulation for a few indications. We review evidence for neuromodulation in treating some important painful conditions that are not currently FDA approved.
Methods:
This review included an online web search for only clinical trials testing the efficacy of neuromodulation in treating coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease (PVD), headache, and peripheral field stimulation.
Results:
Our systematic literature search found 10, 6, and 3 controlled studies relating to coronary artery disease, PVD, and headache, respectively. Our review also included 5 noncontrolled studies relating to peripheral field stimulation, as no controlled studies had been completed.
Conclusion:
This review article shows compelling evidence based on clinical trials that neuromodulation can be of benefit for patients with serious painful conditions that are not currently approved by the FDA.
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