postsynaptic dorsal column epidural stimulation

#Postsynaptic dorsal column epidural stimulation generator#
#Postsynaptic dorsal column epidural stimulation trial#

The proper placement of the electrodes is confirmed intraoperatively with the evaluation of satisfactory coverage of the affected areas after electrical stimulation of the spinal cord through the implanted electrodes. This can be done either percutaneously (through radiographic guidance) or under direct vision through a small incision in the back of the patient and removal of the posterior bony part of the spinal canal. Under local anesthesia, the epidural electrodes are implanted in the epidural space, above the posterior elements of the spinal cord.

#Postsynaptic dorsal column epidural stimulation generator#

If the results are satisfactory the patient would be scheduled for the surgical procedure of implantation of the DCS system.Īs mentioned above, the implantable part of the DCS system consists of these components: the stimulating electrodes, an electrical pulse generator and the conducting wires connecting the electrodes to the generator.

#Postsynaptic dorsal column epidural stimulation trial#

The patients selected for possible DCS would undergo a trial period of stimulation for 4 to 7 days to assess their response to the treatment. Up to 70% of patients who underwent DCS were satisfied with their treatment, and 75% of patients said they would have the procedure again if they had known their outcome before implantation How is it treated?Īll patients are evaluated by a multidisciplinary team to confirm the suitability for the procedure. For example: Up to 62% of patients receiving DCS for refractory neuropathic back and leg pain or FBSS have been reported to achieve 50% or more pain relief and up to 53% of patients no longer required analgesic drugs. What should I expect after DCS?Īlthough the response to any treatment varies from individual to individual, the outcomes after application of DCS reported in the literature are quite satisfactory. It is an implantable neuromodulation modality, aiming to decrease the intensity and frequency of the pain. Can DCS cure the underlying conditions?ĭCS is not a cure for the disease that causes the pain. The whole system is controlled by the patient with the use of the generator remote control.Īlthough DCS was developed on the basis of the gate control theory, the exact mechanisms of action are not fully understood. There are three components of the DCS system: the stimulating electrodes, an electrical pulse generator with the conducting wires connecting the electrodes to the generator, and the generator remote control.Īfter implantation of the system, electricity is delivered on the posterior part of the spinal cord through the stimulating electrodes, resulting in improvement of pain.

The aim of DCS is to reduce the intensity, duration, and frequency of pain associated with the above conditions.

Other conditions where DCS is used are refractory angina pectoris and peripheral vascular disease. Through an implanted electrode, electricity is delivered to the posterior elements of the spinal cord in order to relieve the pain associated with failed-back surgery syndrome (FBSS) and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS).

For more information, please visit our Center for Neuromodulation What is DCS and which conditions are treated with DCS?ĭorsal Column Spinal cord stimulation (DCS) is a technique used in the management of certain chronic pain syndromes.