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Peripheral Nerve Field Stimulation Therapy for Patients With Thoracic Pain: A Prospective Study.
Bruce Mitchell1, Paul Verrills1, David Vivian1
1Monash House, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
Summary
Peripheral nerve field stimulation (PNfS) effectively treats chronic thoracic pain, significantly reducing pain scores. This intervention offers sustained relief for most patients, especially when combined with analgesics.
Area of Science:
- Pain Medicine
- Neuromodulation
- Spinal Cord Stimulation
Background:
- Chronic thoracic pain affects fewer patients than lumbar or cervical pain.
- Limited research exists on treating persistent thoracic pain.
- Peripheral nerve field stimulation (PNfS) is explored as a treatment option.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of PNfS for chronic thoracic pain.
- To assess long-term outcomes of PNfS in this patient cohort.
Main Methods:
- 20 patients with chronic thoracic pain successfully trialed PNfS.
- Permanent electrodes were implanted for PNfS.
- Patients were followed for 12 months, with all 20 included in analysis.
Main Results:
- Baseline pain (NPRS) averaged 7.75, improving to 2.25 post-PNfS (average reduction of 5.5).
- Three devices were removed due to site pain, infection, or inadequate relief.
- The majority experienced significant and sustained pain reduction.
Conclusions:
- PNfS is effective for intractable thoracic pain, providing significant relief.
- Sustained pain relief is achieved in most patients.
- Combined PNfS and analgesic therapy may enhance outcomes.
