Spinal Cord Stimulation: An Effective Treatment for MS

The journal of Minimally Invasive Surgery published an article in which the researchers systematically reviewed the literature to evaluate the effectiveness of spinal cord stimulation (SCS) in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. 373 MS patients were found after a review of 452 articles and 7 studies; 82 patients underwent a de novo implantation. Among the findings, long lasting improvement was seen in

• 56% of MS patients with motor disorders
• 67% of MS patients with urinary dysfunction
• 82% of MS patients with neuropathic pain

The study concluded that, “The results of this systematic review suggest that SCS is effective in MS patients. Neuropathic pain and urinary dysfunction are significantly improved after SCS compared with motor disorders. Moreover, a proper stimulation trial is useful in increasing the number of patients responding to this treatment. Further studies with longer FU are needed to improve the patient selection, clarify the best timing to perform SCS in these patients, and better understand the potential loss of effectiveness of SCS over time.” The researchers called for “Further studies are needed to improve the patient selection and clarify the best timing to perform SCS in these patients.”

 

Read the journal article.

Other Categories:

• implantable technology

• multiple sclerosis

• neurology

• neuropathic pain

• pain assessment

• pain management

• spinal/spine

• technology/robotics