DRG Stimulation

The DRG is responsible for communicating all sensory information from your peripheral extremities to your central nervous system (spine and brain). DRG stimulation provides a more effective and specific treatment approach, allowing our physicians to target pain signals at the specific nerve roots (corresponding to the area of pain), especially for conditions like neuropathy and chronic nerve pain. DRG stimulation is often more helpful in treating focal pain (pain in a specific area) than other versions of neuromodulation. By reducing or eliminating the transmission of pain signals to the brain, DRG stimulation will significantly reduce pain, leading to increased activity levels, and decreased dependence on pain medications, and improved quality of life.

IS DRG STIMULATION (SCS) RIGHT FOR ME?

Patients selected for this procedure usually have nerve pain for at least 6 months and have failed to improve with more conservative therapies like injections, medications, and physical therapy. Often, patients have had surgery which has also failed to control their pain.

WHAT CONDITIONS CAN DRG STIMULATION EFFECTIVELY TREAT

DRG stimulation is effective in treating conditions such as complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), causalgia, post-laminectomy syndrome and other severe chronic pain conditions that have not responded well to other pain management strategies. 

ARE THERE ANY POTENTIAL RISKS?

Potential risks of DRG stimulation include infection, bleeding, lead migration, and technical problems with the stimulator device. However, these risks are generally considered low, and precautions are taken to minimize them during and after the procedure.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN DRG AND SPINAL CORD STIMULATION?

DRG stimulation focuses on the dorsal root ganglion, which is a cluster of neurons in the spinal column that plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of chronic pain. This allows for targeted pain relief in specific areas of the body. 

SCS provides a broader range of pain management by delivering electrical impulses along the spinal cord to prevent pain signals from reaching the brain. 

DRG stimulation is often considered for more localized or specific pain conditions that have not responded well to other treatments, including traditional SCS. DRG stimulation is particularly effective for localized nerve pain conditions such as neuropathy.

PREPARING FOR TREATMENT

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING THE PROCEDURE?

A DRG stimulator has 2 parts, the electrodes (leads) that deliver the current to the DRG (nerve) and the pulse generator (battery).

THE TRIAL PROCEDURE:

A unique component of DRG stimulation is that there is a 7-day trial period to determine if this therapy will be successful for you. During the trial phase, the electrodes are temporarily placed through a needle via access to the epidural space (much like during an epidural steroid injection). During this time, the system will work exactly like an implanted system, but without any incisions, cuts, or permanent placement. At the end of the trial period, the temporary leads are easily removed in the office. If the temporary trial relieved your pain and helped improve your activity levels, then you would be a good candidate for implantation of a DRG stimulator.

THE IMPLANTATION PROCEDURE:

The actual implant is performed as outpatient surgery. The leads are placed the same way they are placed during the trial phase. Then, a small incision (less than 1 inch) is made so that the leads can be placed under the skin. A second, 1.5-inch incision is made below the waistline and a pocket is made beneath the skin for the battery. The leads are then connected to the battery and then the incisions are closed. Once the surgery is complete, the entire spinal cord stimulation system is under the skin and usually not noticeable.

AFTER TREATMENT

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER THE PROCEDURE?

The goal for DRG Stimulation is a significant reduction in pain along with improvement in daily activities, mood, sleep, and reliance on pain medication. 

HOW LONG IS THE RECOVERY PERIOD?

The recovery period after implantation is fairly short. Most patients can shower within 72 hours and can return to work within 1 week. The incisions are largely healed within 2 weeks. We ask our patients to limit certain strenuous activities for 4-6 weeks and then can return to full activity by 6 weeks after surgery.

ARE THERE ANY SIGNS THAT MEAN I SHOULD CONTACT MY DOCTOR?

While recovering from the treatment, reach out if you experience:

  • If you see signs of infection at the site of the implant, such as redness, swelling, or increased pain. 
  • Any unexpected changes in the sensation or effectiveness of the stimulation, such as a sudden increase in pain or loss of pain relief.
  • If you encounter technical issues with the device or if you have concerns about its operation or effects on your body.

COMMON CONDITIONS TREATED BY DRG STIMULATION: