Chronic Pain Support Group
Physicians and professionalsdefine pain as chronic if it lasts longer than three to six months and is persistent. It's distinct from acute pain that is a direct result of injury or trauma. This support group is dedicated to those suffering from chronic pain. Discuss treatments that have worked for you, find advice for your specific experience, and find support. You're not...
I would like some info on recovery time and what to expect during the procedure and trial period for a cervical spinal cord stimulator trial.
I'll take info on lower spine trials also. I am a detail person, so I'm looking for the start, during, and after stuff, if you have time.
It's a Boston Scientific, but brand doesn't matter.
Thanks,
David.
I'll take info on lower spine trials also. I am a detail person, so I'm looking for the start, during, and after stuff, if you have time.
It's a Boston Scientific, but brand doesn't matter.
Thanks,
David.
For the trial, the lead was inserted in the small of my back (like an epi-dural) and carefully pushed up to the C-2 level using real-time flouroscopy as a guide. The contacts extended from C-2 to C-7 and block the pain signals from my hands, arms, and feet.
The wire at the insertion point is left protruding and is connected to an exterior computerized control. You use this to adjust the signal as needed. They cover the insertion area with sterile tape (like you get with an IV) and the rep instructs you on how to use the controller (they gave me a fanny pack to hold the external control). Then you go home. The limit of my trial was four days. I tried to get them to leave it in longer, but it had to come out. Removing it took 10 seconds. Then a band-aid and home again and wait for insurance approval (that took 10 days).
The permanent leads went in the same way. I chose the same leads as were used in the trial. They put in two for more complete coverage. Then instead of leaving the leads protruding, they were placed under the skin and attached to the implanted computerized unit. It's about the size of an Eisenhauer silver dollar. It communicates with a hand-held device that you control. The leads were sutured to muscle at the insertion point to minimize lead migration.
I hope you get the relief I get from your SCS.
The trial is a piece of cake, I was awake and talking to everyone that is in the room. My mother was in the room also, and she found it very interesting, since they do it under fluoroscopy. I had some discomfort for about 2 days, but it really wasn't painful. The part that sucked is that I couldn't take a shower for 7 days, that killed me! I got those wash cloth that they have at the pharmacy to wash people that are bed ridden, and I washed myself with that.
As far as the placement of the leads, and all that jazz was awesome and it didn't hurt. Take care and let us know how it goes.
Hugs,
David.