Peripheral Nerve Stimulator
Peripheral nerve stimulation is an outpatient procedure for chronic pain. Peripheral nerve pain affects the nerves throughout the body. For patients seeking alternatives to oral pain medications due to potential side effects, an outpatient procedure known as peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) may be a good option.
The peripheral nervous system is located outside the brain and spinal cord; it is part of the central nervous system. PNS may be recommended for patients experiencing acute or chronic nerve pain. PNS targets specific nerves to block or modify the peripheral nervous system’s pain signals.
Peripheral nerve stimulation can help reduce the use of pain narcotics, which may cause drowsiness. This procedure also allows mobility, so that daily tasks and physical therapy are possible.
Indications
- Chronic Nerve Pain
- Acute Nerve Pain
- Chronic Knee Pain
- Spine Pain
- Diabetic Neuropathy
- Amputation Pain
- Trauma Pain
- Complex Regional Pain Disorder
- Headache Pain
Procedure
A small electrical device called an electrode is implanted near the damaged peripheral nerves surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The device works by disrupting pain signals sent from the nerves to the brain. It’s small enough to be placed directly under the skin and can provide quick relief from chronic pain symptoms.
PNS is done through a needle puncture of the skin. It typically takes about 20 minutes. It is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure and can be done in a surgery center. Once the area is numb, a small wire-like electrode is implanted next to the nerve target. The electrode is connected to a small peripheral nerve stimulator device. Once the electrode is in place, the stimulation is turned on to create a gentle tingling sensation from the stimulation. Once confirmation of this sensation is received, the wire is secured and the needle is taken out.
This procedure is temporary; it lasts 60 days. If pain is still experienced after 60 days, a more permanent procedure called spinal cord stimulation may be an option.
PNS is a safe and low-risk temporary relief solution for acute and chronic pain.
Benefits
- Pain relief
- Can reduce use of narcotics for pain relief
- Can increase mobility to perform daily tasks