Wednesday, March 26, 2025

Keith's Nerve Stimulator Surgery

On Monday, March 24, 2025, Keith had a nerve stimulator implanted.  He has two large incisions in his back.  In two weeks, after the scar tissue has formed and the incisions have healed, Boston Scientific will turn on the electrical connectors at full capacity.  Then in two months, they will insert the upper stimulator.  It is a long drawn out process, but we are very hopeful that it will help tremendously.

This AI Spinal Cord Stimulator sends electrical pulses along the leads which stimulate nerve fibers in the spinal cord.  This stimulation interferes with the transmission of pain signals to the brain, reducing or blocking pain.  This can provide significant pain relief and may reduce reliance on pain medications and improves quality of life and function.  There is risk for infection, hardware failure, and stimulation related sensations, and will take time to adjust the stimulator.  The success rate varies on the individual patient and condition.  Studies have shown that up to 80% of patients experience significant pain relief.

Keith will have to carry an identification card that explains his condition and the presence of the implant so that metal detectors and security scanners at airports won't interfere with the device.  

We were so happy with the results of the trial and we are hopeful that his will work well for Keith and give him a better quality of life.




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