Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant (SCS)

What Is Spinal Cord Stimulation?

Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is a treatment that helps block pain signals in the spine before they can reach the brain. The system includes a small generator, similar to a pacemaker, which is first worn outside the body during a trial period. If the trial is successful and provides good pain relief, the generator can be permanently implanted.

The generator is connected to thin wires called leads, which are placed near the outer layer of the spinal cord. These leads deliver gentle electrical pulses to help disrupt pain signals. Patients are also given a controller, a handheld device that lets them adjust the stimulation to find the most comfortable setting.

Do You Qualify For a Spinal Cord Stimulator?

Spinal Cord Stimulation may be recommended for patients who have:

Lived with chronic pain in the back, neck, arms, or legs for six months or longer
Neuropathic pain, including burning, tingling, or numbness
Tried surgery or other treatments without sufficient relief

Spinal Stimulator Implant Procedure

Before your procedure begins, a member of our clinical team will meet with you to answer any questions and review your consent forms. In the procedure room, you will lie on a treatment table, and the area where the leads will be inserted will be carefully sterilized.

You may receive a local anesthetic to numb the area, and sedation may also be offered to help you feel more comfortable. A radiology technician will assist your doctor by guiding a fluoroscope, a specialized X-ray machine, to help visualize the placement of the leads.

Using a needle, your doctor will insert the leads into your back. Once the leads are positioned correctly to target your pain areas, they will be connected to the external generator used during the trial period.

Some patients may experience discomfort during the procedure. If you feel any pain, it is important to let your doctor know so adjustments can be made. The entire procedure usually takes between 30 minutes and one hour.

Afterward, you will rest in a recovery area and receive detailed discharge instructions. You will also need a responsible adult to drive you home.

Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant Recovery

After your procedure, it is normal to experience mild discomfort around the insertion site. You should plan to rest for at least a day before returning to your regular activities.

It is important to keep the procedure site clean and dry while it heals. If you notice redness, swelling, or signs of infection, contact Alabama Anesthesiology & Pain Consultants so that a provider can assist you.

Benefits of the Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant

Spinal Cord Stimulation often replaces pain with a mild tingling sensation or, for some patients, results in the complete absence of pain.

Many studies have shown that SCS can reduce pain levels, decrease the need for pain medications, improve physical function and mobility, and help some patients return to work after long periods of disability. Many patients notice pain relief during the initial trial itself. Sometimes, minor adjustments to the leads are needed to maximize coverage and comfort. Research shows that a significant number of patients continue to experience at least 50 percent pain reduction even several years after their original implant.

Choose Alabama Anesthesiology & Pain Consultants for Your Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant (SCS)

Managing chronic pain can be challenging, but you do not have to do it alone. At Alabama Anesthesiology & Pain Consultants, our experienced team is dedicated to helping you find lasting relief through Spinal Cord Stimulation. From your first consultation to follow-up care, we will be with you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a Spinal Cord Stimulator consultation and take the first step toward better pain management.