ABSTRACT
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is an effective neuromodulation technique used to manage patients with both sympathetic and neuropathic chronic pain. Paddle lead implantation is done surgically as a laminotomy or laminectomy, and it requires anesthesia, tissue dissection, and muscle retraction. SCS often results in positive outcomes, with significant reduction in chronic pain. Nevertheless, with multiple derivations of hardware and surgical techniques, there are potentials for complications that require surgical revision. Additional complications include hardware-derived and spinal infections, dural punctures, seromas, and development of tolerance to stimulation. The implantable pulse generator should be interrogated to ensure functionality and check impedances. Consider using strain relief loops at the anchor point of the stimulator and the generator site to mitigate the risk of lead migration and fracture.
