Neuromodulation, which includes spinal cord stimulation (SCS), means to alter, or change, electrical signals that nerves carry to the brain. An FDA-approved treatment, SCS therapy is used for management of neuropathic pain—a severe, chronic pain condition—where the nerve fibers are injured or impaired and results in a change in nerve function.
Pain Specialists understand that it is possible to change or modify the pain signals traveling to the brain so that it receives a different signal. This is achieved by placing electrode contacts in the epidural space—the electrodes are connected to an implant with rechargeable power and electronics. When turned on, the contacts deliver electrical pulses that stimulate the nerves carrying pain signals. This stimulation masks the pain in the affected area with a gentle sensation called paresthesia.
A successful chronic pain treatment for over 30 years, spinal cord stimulation is practiced by many Pain Specialists. Currently, more than 100,000 people use SCS to control their pain.
Precision Plus™ SCS System
The revolutionary Precision Plus™ SCS System is small, comfortable, and discreet—about half the size of other rechargeable SCS devices—and is designed to precisely and simultaneously target pain in up to four areas.
Precision Plus is most often minimally invasive, non-destructive, and a reversible procedure. Acquiring the Precision Plus System is a two-step process. First, a simple, diagnostic trial conducted on an outpatient basis indicates whether the system will be effective. The trial may last three to five days, which allows patients and physicians to assess the therapy benefits. Assuming the pain relief is beneficial, the next step is implanting a small device just under the skin in a separate procedure.
The Precision Plus System's technological advancements are intended to allow patients to maintain therapy over time without the systemic side effects of pain medication. Some patients who have benefited from SCS have reported reductions in the quantity of pain medication taken.
“From a technical point of view, the Precision System is more user-friendly and effectively covers the painful areas. From the patient's perspective, this equals a better quality of life. My patient has been treated with conservative therapies that were not effective in relieving his low back pain. I am very excited to have access to this advanced spinal cord stimulation system, which was able to provide pain relief not only to my patient's low back area, but also his lower extremities.”
—Jose Rodriguez, MD, FIPP
Interventional Pain Specialist