Beneficial augmentation following dorsal column stimulation in some neurological diseases

101 patients with multiple sclerosis and other demyelinating diseases have undergone dorsal column stimulation (DCS) during the past 6 years. DCS augmented weakened neurological functions in 94 patients. Varying improvements were seen in general strength, balance and gait, sensory modalities speech, and bladder function with an important increase in endurance. Two different DCS systems were implanted: 65 patients had a radio frequency stimulator and 36 had a totally implantable programmable stimulator. Except for the first 4 patients, who underwent an initial trial of DCS, permanent implantation of the stimulation system was done as the initial procedure in the series. 16 patients died of their disease or other causes unrelated to the stimulator. DCS is a safe and efficacious method for augmenting the neurological function in most selected patients and can lead to an improved quality of life.