Dorsal column stimulator explained generator#
Dorsal column stimulator explained skin#
Dorsal column stimulator explained trial#
Dorsal column stimulator explained series#

The dorsal column stimulator is a specially designed system consisting of several important components:

Dorsal column stimulator explained series#

The stimulator system is implanted and electricity is delivered to the posterior of the spinal cord through a series of electrodes which improve the frequency, length, and intensity of pain. What Is a Dorsal Column Stimulator?ĭorsal column stimulator insertion is a technique designed to manage pain from certain chronic pain syndromes by delivering electric current to the posterior dorsal column in the back. At Plymouth Bay Orthopedic Associates we understand how chronic pain can impact your life, so call us now to learn more about chronic pain management. This procedure is designed to provide relief that matches the pain associated with the syndrome. Dorsal column stimulator insertion is a long-term treatment for chronic pain that involves delivery of electricity to the dorsal column. To find treatment for your back pain, click the request an appointment button while you’re here on our website, or call the nearest office in either Portland or Wilsonville, Oregon.Treatments for chronic pain disorders have grown popular in the last decade as men and women seek effective solutions to help manage their chronic pain. You need to take it easy for a few weeks after surgery while the incision heals.

Dorsal column stimulator explained skin#

He then anchors the leads down and tunnels them to the pulse generator, which is placed under your skin in either your buttocks or abdomen.Īfter the procedure, you’re monitored for a short time, and your device is programmed to your specific settings. Kellogg uses X-ray imaging to place the leads in the right place. Kellogg schedules you for the permanent device.įor the surgery, you’re under sedation while Dr. If you experience at least a 50% reduction in your pain, Dr.

Dorsal column stimulator explained trial#

You wear the trial device for a week or so, and you document your pain level each day during the trial.

Dorsal column stimulator explained generator#

Kellogg places trial leads in the area that you’re experiencing pain and attaches them to the pulse generator outside of your body. Before the permanent device is implanted, Dr. Getting a spinal cord stimulator is a two-part procedure. The spinal cord stimulator is also less invasive than most back surgeries, which makes it a good option. Te device is also sometimes used to relieve pain when you aren’t a good candidate for back surgery. Other conditions, such as osteoarthritis and degenerative disc disease, can also lead to chronic pain that’s difficult to treat. Here are a few of the common problems that a spinal cord stimulator may be able to help: Kellogg recommends spinal cord stimulation for chronic back pain that hasn’t gotten better with more conservative treatments. But there are newer types of simulators that are paresthesia-free, meaning you don’t feel any tingling or pain. Spinal cord stimulators provide pain relief with paresthesia, which is a type of tingling feeling that covers up your pain. You control the stimulation with a remote control whenever you’re in pain. The pulse generator is placed under the skin either in your abdomen or your buttocks. The leads, which are connected to the pulse generator, are placed in the epidural space in your spine. On the leads are tiny electrodes that transmit a mild electrical impulse to your nerves, which tricks your brain into not feeling your pain.

So what exactly is this device? The spinal cord stimulator is made up of a battery (also called a pulse generator) and thin wires known as leads. Kellogg suggests another option - a spinal cord stimulator. However, if your pain persists even after several types of treatment, Dr. Understanding a spinal cord stimulatorīack pain has many different causes, some of which can be treated conservatively. Jordi Kellogg is our board-certified neurosurgeon, and he specializes in a variety of spine treatments, including spinal cord stimulators. Īt Kellogg Brain and Spine, our team is ready to assist you with all of your spinal concerns, including chronic pain. Don’t lose hope though, because there’s a treatment that might be able to help with your pain - a spinal cord stimulator. When the pain comes from your back, it not only affects that area, but sometimes affects your legs as well. Nerve pain can be unbearable at times, especially if many of the treatments you’ve tried haven’t helped.