Spinal cord stimulation for chronic pain management

This article outlines the role of spinal cord stimulation in contemporary c hronic pain management. The anatomical and neurophysiological correlates of stimulation of the intraspinal structures are discussed. The most common i ndications are presented, including failed back syndrome, reflex sympatheti c dystrophy, neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome, and spinal cord injury, e tc. The most common complications are presented, including paralysis, infec tion, electrode migration, cerebrospinal fluid leak, and pain. Spinal cord stimulation is one of the most effective techniques available in the manage ment of severe chronic pain that has been refractory to other more conserva tive modalities. (C) 2000 IMSS. Published by Elsevier Science Inc.