Types of Implantable Stimulator Procedures Available

Implantable neurostimulator devices from several manufacturers, including St. Jude Medical (Abbott Labs), Medtronic Corporation, and Boston Scientific are FDA-approved for the treatment of several forms of chronic back and extremity pain. They have been successfully utilized as chronic pain therapies for over 50 years, and there are hundreds of peer-reviewed medical research publications attesting to their efficacy.

Spinal Cord Stimulation

Probably the most common type of implant is for Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) for the purpose of controlling severe, intractable, chronic back and extremity pain. The same type of stimulator may alternately be placed subcutaneously and stimulate the peripheral nerves (Peripheral Nerve Stimulator) of the back as an additional aid to pain treatment. The Vega Procedure involves both a Spinal Cord Stimulator and Peripheral Nerve Stimulator, and research indicates that this may provide additional benefits over SCS or PNS alone.

Occipital Nerve Stimulation

Implanted stimulators have also been used very successfully for chronic head pain, including migraines and painful neuropathies. These are termed Occipital Nerve Stimulators (for pain over the back of the head) and/or Supraorbital Nerve Stimulators (for pain over the forehead). The Reed Procedure is a combination of both that allows for global coverage of severe migraines.

For patients that experience chronic pain after inguinal hernia repairs, Inguinal Nerve Stimulators have often brought relief.