Spinal Cord Stimulator

What is a spinal cord stimulator?

A spinal cord stimulator is a neurostimulation device Eric K. Fanaee, MD can implant into your body to control pain. It's particularly useful if you have neuropathic (nerve-derived) pain.

Neurostimulation works by using electrical impulses to disrupt the activity of the nerves that are transmitting pain signals to your brain. By targeting these nerves and preventing them from working correctly, the spinal cord stimulator can significantly reduce your pain levels.

Spinal cord stimulator implantation involves having a minimally invasive surgical procedure. It’s an option that Dr. Fanaee reserves for patients who aren't responding to less invasive methods like oral medication, physical therapies, and injectable treatments.

Before having a permanent spinal cord stimulator implant, you need to undergo trial implantation. This gives you a week or so to test the device and make sure it's going to be a practical option.

What does trial spinal cord stimulator implantation involve?

Trial spinal cord stimulator implantation involves having a surgical procedure to place one or two insulated wire leads into your back. Dr. Fanaee anesthetizes the treatment area, then inserts the leads using a needle to access the epidural space around your spine.

The more accurately Dr. Fanaee can place the leads, the more effective your spinal cord stimulation trial will be. To ensure the optimal placement, Dr. Fanaee needs your feedback to let him know when the leads are in the most effective position. He can then fix the electrodes in place.

You control the electrical pulses sent by the leads using a handheld device. If your trial implantation is successful and you feel a significant benefit, Dr. Fanaee can arrange for you to have a permanent spinal cord stimulator.

What does permanent spinal cord stimulator implantation involve?

Permanent spinal cord stimulator implantation requires IV (intravenous) sedation or a general anesthetic. Dr. Fanaee takes the temporary leads out and replaces them with permanent ones, ensuring the replacement leads go into the same position as the trial leads.

He then places the implantable pulse generator (IPG) battery under your skin and connects the wire leads into the IPG battery. You could have the IPG implanted in your abdomen or buttocks.

After your procedure, Dr. Fanaee shows you how to control your spinal cord stimulator using a wireless programmer. You have access to different programs, and you can adjust the electrical pulse strength at any time to help you manage your pain.

If you have chronic pain in your neck or back and other treatments aren't alleviating your discomfort, a spinal cord stimulator could be the answer. Call Dr. Eric K. Fanaee, MD today to find out more. You can also book an in-person or telehealth appointment online.