Spinal Cord Stimulation

What is spinal cord stimulation?

Spinal cord stimulation is an effective pain-relieving treatment that uses a medical device that sends electrical signals to your spinal cord. This, in turn, reduces pain signals sent to your brain. 

The stimulator masks targeted pain signals. It’s a small, pacemaker-like device that Dr. Travnicek implants. You control the device’s activity using a remote control.

Why might I need a spinal cord stimulator?

You may be a candidate for spinal cord stimulation if you struggle with ongoing, chronic pain of head, face, back, neck, arms, or legs due to nerve damage or other reasons. If conservative treatments haven’t worked to reduce your discomfort, Dr. Travnicek may suggest spinal cord stimulation. 

To find out if you’re a candidate for the procedure, she discusses your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, and medications. Dr. Travnicek also checks your vital signs, completes a physical exam, and may order blood tests, nerve tests, or imaging procedures.

How should I prepare for spinal cord stimulation treatment?

To get ready for spinal cord stimulation surgery, follow Dr. Travnicek’s instructions. She may ask you to stop taking certain medications, avoid foods and drinks the morning of the procedure, and arrange for someone to drive you home afterward. 

What should I expect during the procedure?

Before permanent spinal cord implantation, Dr. Travnicek completes a trial run to determine if the spinal cord stimulator works to reduce your discomfort.

During the procedure, Dr. Travnicek offers a sedative to help you relax. While lying on your stomach on a medical table, she numbs the treatment area to ensure you feel little pain. She uses X-ray guidance to make a tiny incision and inserts electrodes and a stimulator device beneath your skin before closing the incisions.

What happens after spinal cord stimulation surgery?

After the procedure, you rest for a short time before having someone drive you home and stay with you. You can usually go home the same day or the next morning. Dr. Travnicek gives instructions on how to use the remote control attached to your stimulator to reduce pain.

Get plenty of rest, take medications as directed, ice the treatment area, and avoid strenuous activity until she allows it. Keep your incision site clean during the healing process and avoid alcohol and smoking. Attend follow-up appointments at the Pain Institute of Nevada as scheduled.

To learn more about spinal cord stimulation at the Pain Institute of Nevada and find out the procedure is right for you, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.