Spinal cord stimulator medullary compression—a very rare SCS complication and surgical treatment

Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2022 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41394-022-00550-6 · Published: September 30, 2022

Neurology Pain Management Spinal Disorders

Simple Explanation

Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is a treatment for chronic pain. This case report describes a rare complication where the SCS device compressed the spinal cord, leading to worsening symptoms. A 58-year-old woman with a history of back pain and spine surgeries experienced progressive leg weakness. A CT scan revealed that the SCS electrode array was compressing her spinal cord. The patient underwent surgery to remove the SCS device and relieve the compression. After surgery and rehabilitation, she showed improvement in her symptoms.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

One 58-year-old woman

Evidence Level

Level 4, Case Report

Key Findings

1
The case report highlights a very rare complication of SCS, spinal cord compression due to the electrode array.
2
Surgical removal of the electrode array and spinal cord decompression led to neurological improvement in the patient.
3
This is the first case report describing such complication.

Research Summary

This case report describes a rare instance of spinal cord compression caused by a spinal cord stimulator (SCS) electrode array in a 58-year-old woman with a history of back pain and multiple spine surgeries. The patient presented with progressive paraparesis, and imaging revealed vertebral canal stenosis at the site of the SCS electrode. Surgical removal of the device and decompression resulted in neurological improvement. The authors emphasize the importance of considering rare complications like direct spinal cord compression in patients with SCS and highlight the need for a multidisciplinary approach to managing such cases.

Practical Implications

Rare Complication Awareness

Clinicians should be aware of the possibility of spinal cord compression as a rare complication of SCS.

Imaging Importance

In patients with SCS experiencing new or worsening neurological symptoms, appropriate imaging (CT or MRI if device compatible) is crucial to evaluate for potential compression.

Surgical Intervention

Surgical decompression and device removal may be necessary and effective in cases of SCS-induced spinal cord compression.

Spinal cord stimulator medullary compression—a very rare SCS complication and surgical treatment

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Rare Complication Awareness

Imaging Importance

Surgical Intervention

Study Limitations

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Was this summary helpful?

Spinal cord stimulator medullary compression—a very rare SCS complication and surgical treatment

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Rare Complication Awareness

Imaging Importance

Surgical Intervention

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?