Interrupting the Pain Pathway
Pain travels through your nervous system as electrical signals. SCS technology places small, medical-grade leads near the spinal cord. These leads emit a gentle, specialized electrical field that masks or blocks the pain signals before your brain can perceive them.
Instead of sharp, chronic pain, many patients feel a soothing sensation (paresthesia) or nothing at all in the affected area.
Who is a Candidate for SCS?
Spinal Cord Stimulation is not a first-line treatment. It is specifically designed for patients suffering from persistent, neuropathic (nerve) pain who have not found sufficient relief through conventional methods like physical therapy, medications, or corrective surgery.
Common Indications Include:
Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS):
Persistent back or leg pain continuing after one or more spinal surgeries.
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS):
A chronic pain condition often affecting one limb after an injury.
Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN):
Severe, intractable nerve pain in the lower extremities associated with diabetes.
The Trial: Test Before You Commit
A unique and vital aspect of SCS therapy is the temporary trial phase. Before any permanent implant is considered, you undergo a 5 to 7-day test drive.
During the Trial:
- Temporary leads are placed via a simple outpatient procedure.
- The system is powered by an external device worn on a belt.
- You evaluate the pain relief during your normal daily activities.
If you experience significant relief (>50%), you and Dr. Kalia will discuss moving to the permanent implant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to help you understand the SCS journey.
Will I feel the electrical stimulation?
Depending on the specific programming and technology used, some patients feel a gentle, tingling sensation known as paresthesia, which replaces the pain. Modern systems also offer “sub-perception” modes, meaning the therapy works silently in the background, and you feel absolutely no stimulation at all.
Can I have an MRI with an SCS device?
Yes, most modern Spinal Cord Stimulation systems implanted today are designed to be conditionally safe for Full-Body MRI scans. However, specific conditions must be met, and your device must be placed into “MRI mode” prior to the scan. Always consult with your Savya physician before undergoing any imaging.
Is the procedure reversible?
Yes. Unlike anatomical spine surgery which permanently alters your bone or discs, SCS is entirely reversible. The device can be turned off at any time, and if necessary, the leads and battery can be surgically removed by Dr. Kalia.
What are the potential risks?
As with any surgical implantation, there are risks. The most common include infection at the incision site (usually within the first 2-8 weeks), bleeding, or pain at the implant site.
A specific risk to neurostimulation is lead migration, where the electrodes shift from their precise location, potentially requiring a minor revision procedure to restore optimal pain coverage.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
Schedule a comprehensive evaluation with Dr. Kalia to determine if Spinal Cord Stimulation is the right pathway for your chronic pain.