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Implantable Pain Control Devices

Implantable Pain Control Devices (IPCD) include Spinal Cord Stimulators and Spinal Infusion Pumps. These modern high-tech medical devices are implanted with relatively minor surgical procedures and are completely inside the body, no external equipment. They are “end-stage” devices for pain control, i.e., used when all other treatments have failed, including high-dose opioids, nerve destruction procedures, and even surgery. So, they are not for everyone, actually are indicated in only a minority of cases, but when they are needed, they can be very effective in relieving difficult pain conditions.

SPINAL CORD STIMULATORS relieve pain by imparting a weak electrical stimulation to the spinal cord (via fine electrodes lying next to it) which decreases or stops pain by covering the area of pain with a pleasant tingling sensation. The stimulator is completely internal, to include the small electrodes and the Implantable Pulse Generator (battery and computer). The “SCS” works best for neuropathic (nerve) pain, seen most commonly in the arms or legs due to nerve injury in the spine or nerve roots, but may effectively relieve neuropathic pain seen anywhere in the body.

SPINAL INFUSION PUMPS relieve pain by infusing potent opioids (like morphine) and other medications directly into the spinal canal. The pump itself is about the size of a hockey puck, and contains the battery, computer and medication. It is connected to a fine silicone catheter which runs under the skin to the spinal canal and, just like the SCS, the pump and catheter are completely internal in the body. When the medication in the pump runs low, it is simply refilled (about once every two to three months) through the skin with a small needle. Once again, the “pain pump” is used only when pain is severe and all other treatments have failed, but in such cases, it can provide relief of pain when nothing else has.