Spinal nerve root stimulation

Abstract

Spinal nerve root stimulation (SNRS) is a neuromodulation technique that is used to treat chronic pain. This modality places stimulator electrode array(s) along the spinal nerve roots, creating stimulation paresthesias within the distribution of the target nerve root(s), thereby treating pain in that same distribution. There are several different forms of spinal nerve root stimulation, depending upon the exact electrode positioning along the nerve roots. SNRS combines the minimally invasive nature, central location, and ease of placement of spinal cord stimulation with the focal targeting of stimulation paresthesias of peripheral nerve stimulation. This hybrid technique may be an effective alternative for patients in whom other forms of neurostimulation are either ineffective or inappropriate.