The Neurostimulation Appropriateness Consensus Committee (NACC): Recommendations on Best Practices for Cervical...

Area of Science:

• Neuromodulation
• Neurosurgery
• Pain Management

Background:

• A multispecialty physician group convened by the International Neuromodulation Society to develop guidelines for cervical neurostimulation.
• This initiative addresses an under-recognized area of neurostimulation practice, aiming to enhance patient outcomes.
• The Neurostimulation Appropriateness Consensus Committee (NACC) project focuses on establishing evidence-based recommendations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish evidence-based guidance for the use of neurostimulation in the cervical region.
• To provide best practices for improving safety and efficacy in cervical neuromodulation.
• To assist clinicians in decision-making for cervical neurostimulation procedures.

Main Methods:

• Physician experts were selected based on clinical experience and contributions to neuromodulation literature.
• Comprehensive literature searches were conducted across multiple databases from 2017 to the present.
• Studies were graded using the US Preventive Services Task Force criteria; recommendations based on evidence strength or consensus.

Main Results:

• The NACC reviewed existing literature to formulate evidence- and consensus-based recommendations.
• Best practices for cervical neuromodulation were established to guide clinical application.
• Future iterations will incorporate new evidence as it becomes available.

Conclusions:

• The NACC recommends best practices for cervical neuromodulation to enhance safety and efficacy.
• Evidence- and consensus-based recommendations serve as a guide for clinical decision-making.
• These guidelines aim to optimize patient care in cervical neurostimulation.