SPINAL-CORD STIMULATION FOR THE TREATMENT OF PROGRESSIVE SYSTEMIC-SCLEROSIS AND RAYNAUDS SYNDROME

Progressive Systemic Scleroderma (PSS) is a generalized disease of con nective tissue involving the skin, as well as other internal organs. T he cutaneous signs are characterized by a progressive sclerosis and lo ss of function or dexterity in the hands. Between 1987 and 1992, 15 pa tients affected by scleroderma were treated by means of spinal cord st imulation (SCS) in order to reduce signs and symptoms related to vascu lar damage. The follow-up ranged from 12 months to 6 years. The study confirms that SCS is an effective therapy in patients with PSS and Ray naud's phenomenon because of its beneficial effects on the Raynaud epi sodes, ulcers, pain, vascular sclerosis and hand function. This method may have a primary role in the treatment of this chronic disorder bec ause of the high probability of failure of other medical or surgical t herapy.