This is a minimally invasive spinal procedure intended to stimulate the dorsal root ganglia of the spine. Dorsal Root Ganglion Stimulation is commonly used for refractory focal neuropathic pain in specific areas of the lower body. Examples include Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) Types I and II of the lower extremities, neuropathic foot pain, postsurgical pain in the groin, hip, and knee and pelvic pain. It works by sending electrical impulses to stimulate the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) which are structures located near the spinal nerve roots and act as regulators of its sensory input. Failure of more conservative treatment options and psychological evaluation are needed for authorization.
A DRG neurostimulation system is composed of two parts:
Stimulation leads:  These are thin wires placed in the epidural space to stimulate the dorsal root ganglia of the nerves controlling the painful area.
Pulse generator: A small device implanted under the skin and connected to the stimulation leads to provide electrical stimulation.
DRG 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.