Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant (Boston Scientific)

Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is the process by which electrical impulses are utilized to relieve chronic pain in the back, arms and legs. The Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant process requires an injection site to be anesthetized and one or more insulated wire leads inserted through an epidural needle or a small incision into the space surrounding the spinal cord.

While connected to a temporary, external stimulator, electrodes at the end of the lead create electrical pulses that stimulate nerves and block pain signals. While getting feedback from the patient, the doctors test various electrode locations to determine which spot provides the most pain relief via the electrical pulses. A trial implantation, utilizing the external stimulator, takes place for one week to ensure that the SCS is working properly and relieving pain.

Following the trial period, if the amount of pain relief is acceptable, the doctors may conduct a permanent implantation that will deliver steady electrical pulses via a permanent lead that is connected to an implanted battery.