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Deep Brain Stimulation and Motor Cortical Stimulation for Neuropathic Pain

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Abstract

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an important treatment option for neuropathic pain. DBS has a considerable history, and it can be used successfully for a wide number of pain syndromes. Epidural motor cortex stimulation (MCS) also is a treatment option for neuropathic pain. Less invasive than DBS, MCS has been rapidly adopted and studied since first described in 1991. A growing body of literature supports the use of MCS for facial pain, though further study to better define the mechanism of action and the most appropriate patient populations is ongoing.

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Disclosures

Dr. J. A. Stadler: none; Dr. D. J. Ellens: none; Dr. Joshua M. Rosenow has served as a consultant for Medtronic Navigation and Boston Scientific Neuromodulation, and has received payment for the development of educational presentations and travel expense compensation from Boston Scientific Neuromodulation.

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Correspondence to Joshua M. Rosenow.

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Stadler, J.A., Ellens, D.J. & Rosenow, J.M. Deep Brain Stimulation and Motor Cortical Stimulation for Neuropathic Pain. Curr Pain Headache Rep 15, 8–13 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11916-010-0161-3

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