"Spinal cord stimulators use low-voltage electrical current delivered by electrodes on the surface of the cord to prevent pain signals from reaching the brain. The underlying pathophysiology is not entirely understood; however, an increase in levels of GABA and serotonin stimulated by an electrical pulse in the area of dorsal horns is one potential mechanism 1."
"device-related, e.g. device malfunction, lead/electrode break or migration"
"biological, e.g. infection, fluid collection or wound dehiscence, CSF leak, cord/nerve damage, epidural haematoma/abscess"
Expected headings
"Mechanism of action"
"Spinal cord stimulators, also known as dorsal column stimulators, are surgically placed devices intended to provide symptom relief in individuals with chronic neurological pain (e.g. failed back syndrome, brachial plexopathy, complex regional pain syndrome)."
"Spinal cord stimulators use low-voltage electrical current delivered by electrodes on the surface of the cord to prevent pain signals from reaching the brain. The underlying pathophysiology is not entirely understood; however, an increase in levels of GABA and serotonin stimulated by an electrical pulse in the area of dorsal horns is one potential mechanism 1."
"An internal pulse generator is implanted in the subcutaneous tissues of the flank, paraspinal, abdominal or upper gluteal regions, with leads extending into the spinal canal with epidural electrodes placed adjacent to the dorsal columns. Two types of electrodes can be implanted 2:"