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Updated: Jan 17, 2026
Dynamic Quantitative Sensory Testing to Characterize Central Pain Processing
Published on: February 16, 2017
Appropriate Selection or Poor Triaging: Assessment of Patient Profiles Presenting to a Neuromodulation for Pain
Prabu Gunasekaran1, Rasheeda Darville1, Abeer Alomari1
1From the Department of Anesthesia and Pain Management, Toronto Western Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Abstract:
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is effective for some pain syndromes, but inappropriate referrals can frustrate patients and misuse resources. This retrospective study reviewed 370 patients referred to a Neuromodulation for Pain Program (NPP) from July 2022 to June 2024. Of these, 241 were deemed appropriate for SCS. The SCS-appropriate group had higher pain intensity, more neuropathic pain, and lower opioid use. Inappropriate referrals were often from family physicians. Key factors associated with inappropriateness included low pain intensity, lack of neuropathic features, and high opioid use. Enhancing referral quality through targeted education may improve care and system efficiency.
