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Spinal Cord Stimulator Specialist

Comprehensive NeuroSpine Carlos Casas, M.D. Our Services Spinal Cord Stimulator

Comprehensive NeuroSpine

Carlos Casas, M.D.

Board Certified Neurosurgeon specializing in the Spine with offices in Hollywood and Boca Raton, FL. Credentialed in several Hospitals and Surgery Centers in Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties.

Chronic pain can interfere with your ability to enjoy life. If you’re still experiencing chronic pain after trying multiple treatment modalities, you may be a candidate for spinal cord stimulation. This technique uses electrical currents to relieve pain. Talk with Dr. Carlos Casas at Comprehensive NeuroSpine, for more information about this innovative treatment. Make an appointment online or call today to learn more about spinal cord stimulation.

Spinal Cord Stimulator Q & A

What is spinal cord stimulation?

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is an FDA-approved pain relief treatment for chronic pain in your torso and limbs through the delivery of low-voltage electrical currents to your spinal cord.

There three types of SCS devices:

Conventional

Conventional systems don’t require many checkups. When the SCS device’s power runs out, Dr. Casas will need to perform a minor surgical procedure to replace the power source.

Radiofrequency

Radiofrequency systems have high-power capabilities and are built to be durable and withstand therapies over long periods of time.

These SCS devices deliver the electrical charge at the high output level and can treat complex, multi-extremity pain. You have to wear an external power source to activate the device.  

Rechargeable

Rechargeable SCS systems are the most recent technology. They require that you recharge the power source yourself when it runs low, rather than have your physician take care of it.

You might need a minor surgical procedure to replace the power source if the charging process becomes too long and impractical.

 

Are you a good candidate for spinal cord stimulation?

Before recommending SCS, Dr. Casas speaks with you to make sure that you have the following:

  • Pain in the affected area
  • Tried conservative treatment options, which haven’t worked
  • Ruled out surgery as an option
  • No pacemaker
  • No psychiatric disorders
  • Willingness to make healthy lifestyle changes
  • Ability to give formal consent

 

What neurological disorders can spinal cord stimulation treat?

SCS can treat or help alleviate symptoms relating to the following neurological disorders:

  • Arachnoiditis: inflammation of the lining that surrounds the brain
  • Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS): nerve disorder that causes intense burning pain
  • Failed-back surgery syndrome (FBSS): continuous pain in the lower back and legs
  • Nerve damage, neuropathy, or neuritis: damage to the outer sheathing of the nerve cells

 

What are the risks and benefits of spinal cord stimulation?

Research has shown that SCS is effective for many people with chronic pain. It also is flexible and can be adjusted to meet each person’s needs. The treatment is targeted to reach the source of the pain.

Nevertheless, SCS poses the following risks:

  • Bleeding
  • Headache
  • Allergic reaction/Infection
  • Paralysis or weakness
  • Spinal fluid leakage
  • Worsened pain
  • Malfunctioning device leading to surgery
  • Overstimulation in the wrong location

 

If you’re experiencing chronic pain, talk with Dr. Casas at Comprehensive NeuroSpine to see if SCS is right for you. Schedule online or call today.     

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