When a Peripheral Nerve Stimulator May Be Necessary
PNS may be recommended for patients experiencing chronic pain due to a variety of conditions, including:
- Nerve damage or neuropathic pain conditions
- Post-surgical pain that persists beyond the expected healing period
- Specific conditions like occipital neuralgia, peripheral neuropathy, or trigeminal neuralgia
- Chronic pain conditions where the pain is confined to a specific peripheral nerve region
The Procedure
The implantation of a Peripheral Nerve Stimulator typically involves the following steps:
Trial Period
Before permanent implantation, a trial stimulator is placed to determine if the patient experiences significant pain relief. This involves inserting the leads and connecting them to an external trial stimulator.
Permanent Implantation
If the trial is successful, a permanent device is implanted. This involves placing small electrodes near the targeted peripheral nerves and connecting them to a pulse generator, which is usually implanted under the skin in a convenient location on the body. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, sometimes with sedation.
Post-implantation Care and Recovery
Recovery from the PNS implantation procedure is generally quick, with most patients able to resume normal activities shortly thereafter. The device settings may be adjusted during follow-up visits to ensure the most effective pain relief. Regular monitoring and maintenance of the device are important for long-term pain management success.
At Excel Health, our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive care and support throughout the treatment process. We aim to improve our patients’ quality of life through innovative and effective pain management solutions, focusing on advanced therapies like Peripheral Nerve Stimulators.