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Complications of Spinal Cord Stimulator Trials and Implants: A Review

  • Anesthetic Techniques in Pain Management (D Wang, Section Editor)
  • Published:
Current Pain and Headache Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has been used for decades to alleviate chronic pain. A growing body of literature suggests that the procedure is not without risks. Understanding the risks of SCS implantation can help treating physicians formulate individualized care plans that promote patient safety and minimize risks.

Recent Findings

The overall complication rate associated with SCS has been reported to be 31.9 to 43%. The most common complication in the literature appears to be electrode migration. Other complications ranging in rates of occurrence include hematoma formation, infection, spinal cord injury, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. Case reports of syrinx formation, foreign body reaction, and fibrosis have also been described.

Summary

Our review shows that there are strategies available to reduce and prevent complications. In addition, close monitoring and early intervention may prevent some of the adverse neurological outcomes. Nevertheless, additional research regarding patient and procedural factors is necessary to improve the safety profile of this intervention.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals, Philadelphia, PA, USA

    Ishan Garg

  2. Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA

    Dajie Wang

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  1. Ishan Garg
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  2. Dajie Wang
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Correspondence to Dajie Wang.

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Garg, I., Wang, D. Complications of Spinal Cord Stimulator Trials and Implants: A Review. Curr Pain Headache Rep 27, 837–842 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11916-023-01190-7

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