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Implantable neurostimulator for chronic pain
Spine Health | Last Active: Jun 21, 2023 | Replies (334)Comment receiving replies
FYI,
I have the DRG and the SCS from St. Jude (Abbott).
Originally I was told my SCS was MRI compatible. Then they changed the leads during one of my revisions and they now say the leads are not MRI compatible (or not approved yet - but that was 4 years ago).
I also have the DRG and they told me that I should not get an MRI since they have no trials showing that having 2 stimulators is safe in an MRI.
The point being that you need to make sure that not only the battery pack, but also BOTH your leads are ALREADY approved for MRI.
I just needed an MRI for my shoulder, but they said they would not recommend it. So I had a CT scan with contrast die which is much less accurate in certain diagnosis.
I no longer get any relief from my stimulators and am considering having them removed.
Carl
Replies to "FYI, I have the DRG and the SCS from St. Jude (Abbott). Originally I was told..."
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@cbrackle
If I decide to have the the drg stimulator implant, I'll insist that they remove the scs. Mine is above my belt line because that's where I have enough padding to accommodate the battery pack.
My Burst scs seems to be reducing its efficacy. I've gone through all of the prescriptions used to treat neuropathy pain, and the pain specialist has gone through his whole list of medications that might work. I'm taking yet another medication, imipramine, and it seems to be working on the pain.
Last week, I spoke with a different doctor who does the implants, and she seems more knowledgeable than any others I've worked with, and gives me a glimmer of hope.
Jim