Robert Moghim MD
Anchor Healthcare
SCS Paddle Lead Revision, Replacement, Removal
1746855365
A spinal cord stimulator (SCS) paddle lead revision, replacement, or removal is a surgical procedure aimed at addressing issues with previously implanted paddle leads, which are used to manage chronic pain. These paddle leads are placed near the spinal cord through a surgical procedure called a laminectomy or laminotomy, which involves removing a small part of the bone to access the spinal canal. If the initial pain relief from the stimulator becomes insufficient, or if there's a hardware failure like lead migration or a malfunction, this procedure may be recommended.
During the removal procedure, you will be under general anesthesia for comfort. The surgeon makes an incision along your spine to access the leads. This can involve carefully removing scar tissue that has formed around the leads and may require additional bone removal for access. If removing the leads, a new set might be replaced in a better position to improve pain relief.
After the surgery, there are some important things to keep in mind. The patient will remain at the surgery center or hospital for a short period, as the procedure is typically performed as same-day surgery. Post-surgical instructions will include activity restrictions, such as avoiding heavy lifting (typically over 10 lbs), bending, or twisting, to minimize the risk of complications. Bracing may be recommended to assist with recovery. It is strongly recommended to monitor the incision sites for signs of infection, such as redness or swelling. Full physical recovery can take up to six weeks.
While there are risks like infection, cerebrospinal fluid leaks, or potential nerve damage, these are rare. Alternatives to this procedure include less invasive percutaneous lead replacement or other neuromodulation therapies if suitable. Preparing for surgery involves preoperative imaging to evaluate the lead position and having medical evaluations to ensure you are fit for anesthesia. Your provider will guide you on a detailed recovery path, ensuring your return to normal activities is smooth and safe.
FAQs
What are the risks associated with the SCS paddle lead procedures?
Though rare, risks include infection, cerebrospinal fluid leaks, or nerve damage. Surgery preparation involves preoperative imaging to evaluate lead position and medical evaluations to ensure fitness for anesthesia, with precautions taken to minimize complications during recovery.
What does the procedure involve?
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision along the spine to access and carefully remove scar tissue formed around the leads. Depending on the procedure, existing leads may be repositioned or replaced with new ones better suited for pain relief.
What is a spinal cord stimulator (SCS) paddle lead revision, replacement, or removal?
The procedure involves surgically addressing issues with previously implanted SCS paddle leads used for chronic pain management. This includes revising, replacing, or removing leads when initial pain relief is inadequate or if there's hardware failure like lead migration or malfunction.
What should patients expect during recovery after SCS paddle lead revision or removal?
Post-surgery, patients remain for a short time at the surgery center or hospital, as it's typically same-day surgery. Recovery includes activity restrictions, such as avoiding heavy lifting, bending, or twisting, with possible bracing for support. Monitoring the incision site for infection signs and gradual resumption to activities over six weeks are also key portions of recovery.
When is an SCS paddle lead revision, replacement, or removal necessary?
This procedure is recommended when patients experience insufficient pain relief from the stimulator, encounter a hardware failure like lead migration, or when there is a malfunction in the device components that were previously implanted.