Spinal Cord Stimulator Replacement

What is spinal cord stimulator replacement?

A spinal cord stimulator replacement procedure is an advanced surgical technique used to remove an older spinal cord stimulator, a pacemaker-like device that emits electrical impulses from beneath your skin, and replace it with a new device.

While many people enjoy the pain-relieving benefits of spinal cord stimulators, these devices aren’t designed to last forever. They typically work well for several years, even decades, before needing replacement. 

Which conditions can a new spinal cord stimulator address?

You have a spinal cord stimulator because it helps control pain, giving you a better life. Your spinal cord stimulator replacement will function just the same. 

It’s common for people with the following conditions to have a spinal cord stimulator and eventually need a replacement:

• Back pain
• Cancer-related nerve pain
• Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
• Pain after amputation
• Peripheral vascular disease (PVD)
• Visceral abdominal pain
• Perineal pain
• Pain in membranes surrounding the spinal cord and brain
• Post-surgery pain
• Nerve pain
• Diabetic neuropathy
• Heart pain
• Nerve pain after surgery

Your spine specialist determines if you’re a candidate for spinal cord stimulator replacement after discussing your symptoms and medical history, completing a physical exam, and ordering imaging procedures or other tests.

What happens during spinal cord stimulator replacement?

Before spinal cord stimulator replacement surgery, your provider cleans and numbs the treatment area to ensure the procedure feels comfortable. They offer a sedative to relax you or general anesthesia to make you fall asleep. Your spine surgeon makes a tiny incision. They remove the old device and leads that deliver electrical stimulation.

Your specialist replaces the older device with a new spinal cord stimulator. Your surgery may last a few hours. You can head home the same day or the following day, but you should have a friend or family member drive you.

What is recovery like after spinal cord stimulator replacement?

You can expect a quick recovery after undergoing spinal cord stimulator replacement. Keep the incision site clean and avoid strenuous activity until given permission by your specialist. Take any medications as directed and follow up with your spine surgeon to ensure a successful, long-lasting result. They’re always here for you if questions or concerns arise. 

Schedule an evaluation at NeuroSpine Center of Wisconsin by phone today to determine if spinal cord stimulator replacement is right for you.