Novel spinal cord stimulation parameters in patients with predominant back pain

Neuromodulation. 2013 Jul-Aug;16(4):370-5. doi: 10.1111/ner.12032. Epub 2013 Feb 21.

Abstract

Objectives: To examine the feasibility of novel high-frequency spinal cord stimulation therapy in a cohort of patients with chronic predominant back pain during a four day, percutaneous trial.

Design: Prospective, multicenter open label pilot trial.

Setting and patients: Twenty-four patients with back pain greater than leg pain who were candidates for spinal cord stimulation were trialed at five U.S. centers.

Interventions: Patients completed a percutaneous trial with a commercially available spinal cord stimulator. The implanted leads were then connected to the novel external stimulation device and patients were trialed for an additional four days.

Outcome measures: Pain intensity ratings, subjective descriptions, and patients' preference.

Results: There was significant improvement from baseline in overall pain scores (8.68 to 2.03, [p < 0.001]) and back pain scores (8.12 to 1.88, [p < 0.001]) with the investigational stimulation. The investigational stimulation was preferred to the commercially available systems in 21 of 24 patients (88%).

Conclusions: Patients with predominant back pain reported a substantial reduction in overall pain and back pain when trialed with high-frequency spinal cord stimulation therapy.

Keywords: Axial back pain; failed back surgery syndrome; high frequency; low back pain; neuromodulation; neurostimulation; spinal cord stimulation.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Multicenter Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Back Pain / therapy*
  • Cohort Studies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pain Measurement
  • Spinal Cord Stimulation / methods*
  • Treatment Outcome