Implantable devices are a group of medical devices that are implanted in the body to help manage chronic pain. These devices work by delivering electrical signals to the spinal cord or nerves, or by releasing medication directly into the body.
These implantable devices are typically used for patients who have not responded to other treatments, such as physical therapy, medication, and injections. They can be a very effective way to reduce pain and improve quality of life for people with chronic pain.
Types of implantable devices for chronic pain
There are a number of different types of implantable devices for chronic pain, including:
- Spinal cord stimulators (SCS): SCS devices deliver electrical signals to the spinal cord. These signals can help to block pain signals from reaching the brain.
- Intrathecal pumps (IT pumps): IT pumps deliver medication directly into the cerebrospinal fluid, which is the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. This allows for more targeted delivery of medication and can reduce the need for oral medications.
- Dorsal root ganglion stimulators (DRG stimulators): DRG stimulators deliver electrical signals to the dorsal root ganglion, which is a cluster of nerves located at the base of the spine. These signals can help to block pain signals from traveling to the brain.
- Peripheral nerve stimulators (PNS): PNS devices deliver electrical signals to peripheral nerves, which are the nerves that carry signals from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. These signals can help to reduce pain and inflammation in the area where the device is implanted.
How are implantable devices for chronic pain implanted?
Implantable devices are typically implanted in a minor surgery. The procedure usually takes about 1-2 hours to complete.
During the surgery, the surgeon makes an incision in the skin and inserts the device into the body. The device is then connected to wires or leads, which will deliver the electrical signals or medication to the spinal cord or nerves.
What are the benefits of implantable devices for chronic pain?
Implantable devices can offer a number of benefits, including:
- Reduced pain: Implantable devices can help to reduce pain significantly, which can lead to improved quality of life.
- Reduced need for medication: Implantable devices can reduce the need for oral medications, which can help to reduce side effects.
- Improved function: Implantable devices can help to improve function and mobility, which can allow people to live more active lives.
What are the risks of implantable devices for chronic pain?
Implantable devices for chronic pain are generally safe procedures. However, there are some potential risks, which include:
- Infection: There is a small risk of infection at the incision site.
- Bleeding: There is a small risk of bleeding during or after the surgery.
- Nerve damage: There is a small risk of nerve damage during the surgery.
- Device failure: Implantable devices can fail over time. This may require additional surgery to replace the device.
Who is a good candidate for implantable devices for chronic pain?
Implantable devices are not right for everyone. They're typically only used for patients who have not responded to other treatments, such as physical therapy, medication, and injections.
Implantable devices are also not appropriate for patients with certain medical conditions, such as severe heart disease or uncontrolled diabetes.
Conclusion
Implantable devices can be a very effective way to reduce pain and improve quality of life for people with chronic pain. However, it's important to be aware of the potential risks and benefits of these devices before making a decision about whether or not they are right for you.
If you experience chronic pain and would like to know if an implantable device is right for you, make an appointment with us. We'll perform a full evaluation and create a treatment program for your unique situation.
