We are Experienced Specialists for Spinal Cord Stimulator Procedures in Houston and Victoria, TX
Doctor Choudhri has over 13 years of experience performing spinal cord stimulator (SCS) trial and implant procedures in Houston and Victoria, TX with leading manufacturers such as Medtronic, Boston Scientific, and Abbott Labs. Both pain pumps and spinal cord stimulators are implantable medical devices but there are key differences in the technology and goals. We can help you determine which pain treatment approach is best for you based on your individual needs and medical history.
A trial is recommended before implanting a permanent SCS device. If you are considering a spinal cord stimulator trial, it is important to have your procedure performed by an experienced specialist. An experienced specialist can improve catheter placement, reduce the chances of complications, and improve patient comfort both during and after your implant.
We can discuss whether this procedure is appropriate for you as well as determine what other pain treatment approaches may be most effective. Please schedule an appointment to discuss your options.
Frequently Asked Questions about Spinal Cord Stimulators
Do you need to have a spinal cord stimulator trial before I can have an implant?
Similar to a pain pump trial, a spinal cord stimulator trial is generally recommended before a permanent implant is made under your skin. The trial uses the same device. During the trial, you can determine whether the device is providing you with adequate pain treatment. You can adjust the level of stimulation using a remote control which allows you to make adjustments at different times of the day or during different types of activities. The trial lasts for approximately one week. If the trial yields the results you want, you can proceed with a spinal cord stimulator implant.
If the trial is not successful, other pain management options can be explored with your pain specialist.
Do you need to have a spinal cord stimulator trial before I can have an implant?
Similar to a pain pump trial, a spinal cord stimulator trial is generally recommended before a permanent implant is made under your skin. The trial uses the same device. During the trial, you can determine whether the device is providing you with adequate pain treatment. You can adjust the level of stimulation using a remote control which allows you to make adjustments at different times of the day or during different types of activities. The trial lasts for approximately one week. If the trial yields the results you want, you can proceed with a spinal cord stimulator implant.
If the trial is not successful, other pain management options can be explored with your pain specialist.
What type of anesthesia will I receive for a spinal cord stimulator (SCS) trial?
For an SCS trial, we provide the option to have the procedure performed under IV sedation to keep you asleep during the entire procedure. The procedure itself generally takes only 30 to 60 minutes.
A spinal cord stimulator trial is considered a minimally invasive procedure. We perform our spinal cord stimulator trials on an outpatient basis at reputable Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs) in the Houston and Victoria, TX area.
How often does the battery need to be replaced for a Spinal Cord Stimulator?
Your spinal cord stimulator operates on battery power. In general, your SCS batteries will last between 3 and 10 years depending on how the device is used. Our pain specialists will regularly follow up with you to determine if the device is meeting your needs and to address any of your remaining pain treatment concerns.
Battery replacement involves a minimally invasive procedure where a small incision is made over the implanted device. The old battery is carefully removed and a new battery is inserted and connected to the leads. The procedure itself typically takes 30 to 60 minutes.
We are experienced in performing battery replacements as well as spinal cord stimulator adjustments and modifications.
What are the differences between an intrathecal pain pump and a spinal cord stimulator?
An intrathecal pain pump, also known as a spinal infusion pain pump and a spinal cord stimulator are both implantable medical devices for long term pain management. The method they use to deliver pain relief differs. A pain pump delivers medication directly to the intrathecal space to manage chronic pain.
The intrathecal space is the space surrounding the spinal cord and the brainstem that is filled with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Because the medication delivered by the pain pump is delivered directly to the intrathecal space, it can provide pain relief with lower doses of medication and fewer side effects compared to oral medications, which must be absorbed through the digestive system and distributed throughout the body.
A spinal cord stimulator delivers electrical impulses to the spinal cord through the leads, which interfere with the pain signals that are traveling up the spinal cord to the brain. The electrical impulses stimulate the nerves in the spinal cord, which can help reduce or eliminate the perception of pain. The patient can adjust the level of stimulation using a remote control, which allows them to customize the level of pain relief they receive at different times of the day or during different activities. A spinal cord stimulator doesn't use medication like a pain pump. Adjustments to a pain pump must normally be completed by a qualified medical practitioner.
We have been performing both spinal cord stimulator trials and implants as well as pain pump trials and implants for many years. We will discuss the specifics of your particular chronic pain case before determining whether a spinal cord stimulator, pain pump, or other form of treatment is the best option for you.