Spinal Cord Stimulation is commonly utilized for refractory neuropathic trunk and/or extremity pain. Examples include failed back surgery syndrome, arachnoiditis , peripheral neuropathy, and Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) Types I and II. It works by sending Electrical impulses to stimulate the spinal cord using an implantable device. Failure of more conservative treatment options and psychological evaluation are needed for authorization.
A spinal cord stimulation system is composed of two parts:
Stimulation leads:  These are thin wires placed in the epidural space to stimulate the spinal cord.
Pulse generator: A small device implanted under the skin and connected to the stimulation leads to provide electrical stimulation.
Spinal cord stimulation involves two stages:
Trial of stimulation: Temporary stimulating trial lead(s) are placed in the epidural space using X-ray guidance in an outpatient procedure. The patient is sent home with an external stimulator to try the stimulation for few days then the leads are taken out.
Permanent Implantation: If the stimulation is successful in relieving the patient’s pain, new permanent leads and an internal pulse generator are implanted in an outpatient surgical procedure.