Improved Pain and Function Using Multiphase Spinal Cord Stimulation in a Nonsurgical Spine Patient

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Pain Management
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Chronic low back pain from degenerative disc disease (DDD) and lumbar spondylosis is a major cause of disability.
• Many patients do not respond to conservative or interventional treatments and are poor surgical candidates.
• Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) presents a potential therapeutic option for these challenging cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a case study evaluating the effectiveness of SCS in a patient with chronic, refractory low back pain.
• To highlight the benefits of SCS beyond pain reduction, including functional improvement and medication management.

Main Methods:

• A 65-year-old female with lumbar DDD and spondylosis, refractory to multiple conservative and interventional treatments, underwent an SCS trial.
• The patient was implanted with the Biotronik Prospera system utilizing multiphase stimulation.
• Outcomes were assessed based on pain relief, functional status, medication use, and long-term follow-up.

Main Results:

• The SCS trial provided approximately 60% pain relief and significant functional improvement.
• Following permanent implantation, the patient reported over 90% sustained pain reduction and discontinued opioid therapy.
• At 9-month follow-up, durable benefits included weight loss, increased physical activity, and return to independent function.

Conclusions:

• SCS is an effective treatment for chronic nonsurgical back pain, offering substantial pain reduction and improved quality of life.
• Multiphase stimulation via the Biotronik Prospera system may be a valuable alternative for patients unresponsive to comprehensive conservative care.
• This case demonstrates the potential for SCS to improve function, reduce medication dependence, and enhance overall well-being in refractory chronic low back pain patients.