Good Morning,

After a spinal fusion from L5-S1 in 2015, I had a disc slippage in 2022. I was consulted about a spinal cord stimulator from the pain management doctor I see to thereafter. Previously, I had the epidurals, PT's, yet not wanting to be medicated with pain relievers, as I am extremely active as a 67 year old then. I learned about a SCS from a seminar in 2019, but wasn't ready. As the previous posts recommended, I consulted with three neurosurgeons, one from Mayo in Phoenix, AZ. The pain management doctor recommended Abbott SCS, and I had the trial in December 2022, which was satisfactory, and gave me the green light to proceed and continue with the decision to have one implanted. I chose a surgeon in Phoenix, who has done hundreds of these, and he was quite professional, and pleasant. The device used was the latest model, a Burst, I believe, yet with my slim body frame, it protruded out, yet I felt if it did the work, I can live with it. It created sciatica pain, and five months later was removed with a smaller unit, one that is chargeable, an Eterna. I charge it about six times a year, no big deal. It is working, doing its' job, and I am pleased with it. It is also MRI compatible, and I turn it to surgical mode when needed, and that means through airport security, although you can receive a pat-down. If you strongly consider a SCS, there are many companies that have them, my pain management recommended Abbott. Have the paddles implanted and not the lead wires. The paddles prove to be a longer recovery-rehab, but the results are better to flush the pain to the brain. The lead wires are not as successful, is what I heard. I can't recommend enough to receive three opinions. One was a orthopedist. I didn't care for his demeanor, in fact, when I decided to go through with the neurosurgeon, the office from the orthopedist called me and asked me why I didn't choose him (?) Wow, I understand it is a money thing, as the procedure was well over 150K. Medicare and my supplement covered it all. If you would like more information please contact me. I am not sure I can give out my personal information.