Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant 

Chronic pain can be a life-altering condition, especially when traditional treatments like medications, physical therapy, or injections are no longer effective. For patients struggling with persistent pain, a Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant offers an innovative, non-surgical solution to help manage pain and improve quality of life. Dr. Vadim Lipel, a dedicated pain management specialist in Encino, California, offers this advanced procedure to provide lasting relief for patients suffering from conditions such as failed back surgery syndrome, neuropathic pain, or complex regional pain syndrome.

What is a Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant?

A Spinal Cord Stimulator (SCS) is a small device implanted in the body that helps manage chronic pain by delivering mild electrical impulses to the spinal cord. These impulses interfere with the nerve signals responsible for transmitting pain to the brain, effectively reducing or masking the sensation of pain. The device consists of a small pulse generator, which is implanted under the skin, and one or more thin leads (electrodes) placed near the spinal cord.

The Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant is often recommended for individuals who suffer from:

• Failed back surgery syndrome (persistent pain following back surgery)
• Neuropathic pain (pain caused by nerve damage)
• Complex regional pain syndrome (a chronic pain condition that typically affects a limb)
• Sciatica
• Chronic low back pain
• Leg pain and tingling
• Shingles pain

Benefits of Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant

• Effective Pain Relief: The primary benefit of a spinal cord stimulator is its ability to provide significant pain relief, especially for conditions that have not responded well to other treatments. It can significantly reduce the perception of pain, allowing patients to regain a higher quality of life.
• Minimally Invasive Procedure: While the spinal cord stimulator requires implantation, the procedure is minimally invasive and involves only small incisions. This reduces recovery time and potential complications compared to traditional surgical options.
• Customizable Treatment: The spinal cord stimulator can be adjusted to meet your specific pain relief needs. Through a small external programmer, Dr. Lipel can fine-tune the intensity, frequency, and type of stimulation to optimize your pain management.
• Non-Opioid Alternative: For patients seeking to reduce or eliminate their dependence on pain medications, the spinal cord stimulator provides a non-opioid solution to managing chronic pain, reducing the need for medication and minimizing the risk of side effects.
• Long-Term Solution: Spinal cord stimulators are designed to provide long-term pain relief, with many patients experiencing significant improvements for years after the implant. Regular follow-up visits with Dr. Lipel will help monitor the device’s performance and make necessary adjustments for continued effectiveness.

How the Procedure Works

The Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant procedure involves a two-step process: a trial phase followed by the permanent implantation of the device.

1. Trial Phase: Before committing to the permanent implantation of the stimulator, Dr. Lipel will perform a trial phase to determine if the spinal cord stimulator will provide significant pain relief. During the trial, temporary leads are placed near the spinal cord using a minimally invasive procedure. The leads are connected to an external pulse generator, allowing you to test the stimulation and assess how well it manages your pain.
   • The trial typically lasts about 5-7 days, and you’ll be able to report back to Dr. Lipel about the level of pain relief you experience during this period.
   • If you find that the stimulator provides significant relief, the next step is to proceed with the permanent implant.
2. Permanent Implantation: Once the trial is successful, the permanent spinal cord stimulator can be implanted. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and sedation to ensure comfort. Dr. Lipel will make a small incision in the lower back and position the leads precisely near the spinal cord. The pulse generator will then be placed under the skin, typically in the abdomen or buttocks, where it can be easily accessed for adjustments. The entire procedure typically takes 1-2 hours.
   • After the implantation, you will be monitored for a short time in the recovery area before being discharged the same day.
3. Post-Procedure Recovery: After the spinal cord stimulator is implanted, you may experience some mild soreness or discomfort at the implant site. Recovery is typically quick, and many patients can resume light activities within a few days. Dr. Lipel will provide specific instructions on how to care for the implant site and what activities to avoid during your recovery period.
   • A follow-up visit will be scheduled to ensure the device is working as expected and to make any necessary adjustments.

What to Expect After the Implantation

Once the spinal cord stimulator is implanted, you will be able to adjust the stimulation levels to suit your specific pain relief needs. Over time, Dr. Lipel may make adjustments to the device’s settings to optimize pain control. The stimulation may be adjusted for various activities or levels of pain throughout the day.

While most patients experience significant pain relief, it can take some time to get used to the stimulation and adjust the settings to find the optimal pain management. You will also need to follow Dr. Lipel’s post-procedure instructions carefully to ensure the best results and prevent complications.

Is a Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant Right for You?

A Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant may be an ideal treatment for you if:

• You suffer from chronic pain that hasn’t responded to traditional treatments, including medications, physical therapy, or surgery
• You experience nerve-related pain conditions, such as sciatica, neuropathic pain, or failed back surgery syndrome
• You are seeking a non-surgical, long-term solution to manage pain without relying on opioid medications
• You are looking for a customizable, adjustable pain management option

If you are a candidate for this procedure, Dr. Vadim Lipel will perform a thorough evaluation to ensure that the spinal cord stimulator will be effective for your pain relief needs.

Schedule a Consultation

If chronic pain is affecting your daily life, a Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant may offer the relief you need to regain your independence and improve your quality of life. Dr. Vadim Lipel specializes in advanced pain management solutions and is committed to providing personalized care to each patient. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how a spinal cord stimulator can help you manage your pain and enhance your well-being.