What is a spinal cord stimulator?

A spinal stimulator is a device used for the treatment of chronic spinal pain, unresponsive to medical or surgical therapy. It works by sending low voltage electrical impulses to the spinal cord, blocking the sensation of pain from being transmitted from the spinal cord to the brain. A stimulator has to parts; a lead, or electrode, is a current transmitting wire placed on the surface of the spinal cord. The lead is connected to a neurostimulator, which supplies electrical impulses to the lead.

How is a spinal cord stimulator implantation performed?

To place a spinal cord stimulator, the surgeon places a needle through the skin and through a bony opening in the vertebrae. Through the needle a wire is placed and threaded into the epidural space of the spine, the space where spinal nerves travel. The wire is threaded to where it lies against the surface of the spinal cord. The wire lead is then connected to a battery, usually worn on a belt pouch. The procedure is performed under sedation and with local anesthetic.

Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant
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