What is a Spinal Cord Stimulation Trial?

A spinal cord stimulation trial, also called SCS, is a temporary procedure that uses electrical impulses to relieve chronic pain in the spinal cord.

Procedure Details

• Temporary electrodes are inserted into the epidural space.
• These electrodes are connected to an external trial stimulator.
• The primary goal is to assess if a permanent device will effectively manage your pain.
  
  

Conditions Treated

• Complex regional pain syndrome
• Neuropathy
• Chronic back or leg pain
  
  

Trial Duration and Outcome

• The trial typically lasts for about a week.
• This period allows for evaluation of SCS’s impact on your pain.
• After the week, the temporary electrodes are removed.
• The ultimate goal is to determine if permanent spinal cord stimulation implantation is a viable long-term pain management solution.
  
  

Potential Risks

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Headache
• Undesired changes in stimulation
  
  

Recovery

• Recovery time is minimal.
• Most patients can resume normal activities shortly after the procedure.