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Spinal Cord Stimulation Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is a technique that treats pain by stimulating the sensory portions of the spinal cord with low amplitude electrical impulses. This technique has been proven to be very effective for patients diagnosed with neuropathic pain (e.g. RSD/CRPS, diabetic neuropathy, arachnoiditis, post-herpetic neuralgia, etc.). Candidates for this procedure usually have pain that has been unresponsive to other forms of treatment. An implanted lead (a linearly aligned array of electrodes), powered by a battery or receiver, is implanted in the epidural space near the spinal cord. The system works by tricking the brain. By sending electrical impulses to the spinal cord, the brain experiences a tingling vibrating sensation as opposed to pain. The technique is typically performed in two stages; the first being the trial stage in which a lead is placed through the skin under local anesthesia into the epidural space. The lead is connected to the trial screening box that the patient takes home. After being taught how to operate this trial screener, the patient goes home for several days to determine if the electrical current provides pain relief. If the "test drive" is successful, a permanent system can be implanted, typically with all the components placed under the skin. This permanent implant usually involves a one to two day hospital stay. - view animation
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