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The Effects of Invasive Motor Cortex Stimulation for Neuropathic Pain: Do We See the Full Picture?
Erkan Kurt1, Eline Bijl1, Inge Arnts2
1Department of Neurosurgery, Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
Pain Practice : the Official Journal of World Institute of Pain
|February 24, 2026
Summary
Invasive motor cortex stimulation (iMCS) offers benefits beyond pain reduction for chronic neuropathic pain patients. Patient satisfaction with iMCS is linked to improved quality of life and societal participation.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pain Management
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Invasive motor cortex stimulation (iMCS) is a last-resort treatment for chronic neuropathic pain.
- Patient expectations and experiences significantly impact iMCS outcomes.
- This study explores patient experiences with iMCS for chronic neuropathic pain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To map patient experiences with iMCS.
- To evaluate the multidimensional effects of iMCS on chronic neuropathic pain patients.
Main Methods:
- Semi-structured interviews with 28 chronic neuropathic pain patients treated with iMCS (2005-2018).
- Inductive iterative process using constant comparative method.
- Verbatim transcription and direct content analysis of interviews; quantitative data on pain intensity and demographics.
Main Results:
- Ten categories structured into three themes: influence on life, quality of life/participation, and acceptance/satisfaction.
- 32% responders, 68% non-responders; 71% would undergo iMCS again.
- Patient satisfaction correlated with quality of life improvements and societal participation.
Conclusions:
- iMCS effects should be assessed multidimensionally, not just pain reduction.
- Patient satisfaction with iMCS is driven by enhanced quality of life and societal reintegration.
- Emphasizes need for patient education and realistic expectation management regarding iMCS benefits and limitations.
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