Spinal Cord Trial Implants: A First Step in Pain Management

Chronic back pain can be debilitating, impacting daily activities and overall quality of life. For patients who have not found relief through conventional treatments, spinal cord stimulation (SCS) may be an option. However, before committing to a permanent implant, patients can undergo a trial period. This blog explores what spinal cord trial implants are, how they work, and what to expect during the trial.

What Are Spinal Cord Implants? Spinal cord implants are devices designed to send mild electrical pulses to the spinal cord, interrupting pain signals before they reach the brain. This helps reduce pain perception and provides relief for conditions such as chronic back pain, sciatica, or failed back surgery syndrome.

The Purpose of a Spinal Cord Trial: A trial implant is a temporary version of the spinal cord stimulator, allowing patients and doctors to assess its effectiveness before deciding on a permanent implant. The trial period typically lasts 5-7 days and provides valuable insight into how well the treatment works for each individual.

How Does the Trial Work?

1. Initial Consultation: Patients meet with their pain management specialist to discuss their medical history and determine if they are good candidates for a spinal cord stimulator trial.
2. Insertion Procedure: During an outpatient procedure, thin wires (leads) with electrodes are placed near the spinal cord through a small incision. The leads are connected to an external device worn by the patient.
3. Programming and Adjustment: The device is programmed to deliver electrical pulses tailored to the patient's specific pain areas. Adjustments can be made to ensure the most effective pain relief.

What to Expect During the Trial Period: Patients are encouraged to go about their normal activities to see how well the trial implant manages their pain in everyday scenarios. Detailed notes on pain levels and activity improvements are essential during this period. If the device provides significant relief, patients can move forward with a permanent implant.

Benefits of a Spinal Cord Trial Implant:

• Non-Permanent Test: Allows patients to try the treatment before committing to a permanent implant.
• Immediate Feedback: The trial provides immediate data on the effectiveness of pain relief.
• Minimally Invasive: The procedure is relatively simple and low-risk.

Potential Risks and Side Effects: While the spinal cord trial is generally safe, potential side effects include:

• Minor discomfort or soreness at the insertion site.
• Temporary changes in sensation.
• Rarely, infection or lead movement.

Patients should follow all post-procedure instructions and report any concerns to their doctor immediately.

Is a Spinal Cord Trial Right for You? Spinal cord trial implants are suitable for individuals who have not experienced relief from other pain management methods such as medication, physical therapy, or less invasive injections. A detailed evaluation by a pain management specialist will help determine if the trial is appropriate.

Conclusion: Spinal cord trial implants provide an excellent opportunity for patients to experience potential pain relief before deciding on a permanent solution. For those dealing with chronic pain that impacts their quality of life, speaking with a pain management specialist about the possibility of an SCS trial could be a pivotal step toward regaining comfort and mobility.

Meet Pain Management Physician Assistant Tyler Duggan

Tyler Duggan is a nationally certified physician assistant who specializes in pain management. His focus for every patient is improvement in quality of life and restoration of function. He believes in a multimodal, evidence-based strategy for the treatment of both acute and chronic pain utilizing the most advanced, minimally invasive techniques when necessary. Always attentive to the individual needs of his patients, he considers it a privilege to walk with them on their path to recovery.

Tyler received his undergraduate degree from Seton Hall University where he also continued his education to receive his Masters of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. He is driven in his goal to provide high-quality care to his patients. When not in the office he enjoys staying active, considering exercise therapeutic for both the body and mind. As a budding chef, he also enjoys experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen and sharing them with friends. 

Tyler Duggan Specializes in neck pain, back pain, nerve pain, and other neurological conditions at Garden State Pain and Orthopedics offices in Clifton, Jersey City, and Edison. You can schedule an appointment with him by selecting the book now button.