Spin surgeries have always been the number one solution for back injuries. These injuries are more common problems in the U.S., as statistics have revealed around 296,000 people in the U.S. are currently living with spinal cord procedures.
You can always go for other medical solutions, but there are some cases where surgeries are the only way out. After these surgeries, there’s a need for spinal cord stimulator procedures.
However, in some cases, health professionals may also recommend an invasive procedure because of lesser success rates in other alternatives. For instance, failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS), which causes extreme pain in the back post-surgery, is a common problem.
Tips for a Successful Spinal Cord Stimulator Procedure Before Surgery
Spinal cord stimulator has also transformed the way the treatments work. It applies not only to patients with pain but also to those facing FBSS pain and with limited lifestyles.
If you are considering a spinal cord stimulator procedure, you need to prepare for it. Therefore, here are some recommendations for you in this regard.
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The Trial Period
One of the most amazing things about the spinal cord stimulator procedure is that it’s one of the few treatment options that let users determine its effectiveness before getting it done. This way, the patient knows what they are signing up for before they can start and get the procedure done permanently.
Due to its effectiveness, most people who try the spinal cord stimulator show an excellent response. However, there’s still a minimal number of people who didn’t get relief from it. Knowing the patient’s reaction before implanting the procedure is a great alternative.
For the trial phase, the medical experts place two small leads in the back’s mid-portion. These leads connect to an external box serving like an implantable device. The box is then programmed to the patient’s specific requirements and the pain faced.
The doctors can then set you up for a permanent implant for your needs and prepare for the procedure accordingly.
Instructions to follow before Spinal Cord Stimulator Implantation
Once you share all the information with the health professional and decide to get the procedure done, they will choose between the lead type most suited for your pain. Most professionals will choose a percutaneous lead for the procedure. However, you can choose lead with a paddle. There’s a high number of barriers anatomically from the stretching of scars.
The procedure requires using general anesthesia, regardless of the kind of lead you choose for the task. The professionals will do a midline incision in your back and run the wires under your skin up to your glutes via small packets created by the surgeon.
The device also has a pulse generator which connects to the wires and is set in the pocket. Finally, the experts complete the procedure and close off your opening.
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The Week Before Your Procedure
Health professionals usually provide the patients with a comprehensive outline of the procedure. They might also explain what you need to do to avoid disruptions in the implantation procedures.
For instance, it could include stopping blood thinners or medicines. The medicines include the ones prescribed or others, like ibuprofen. Stopping blood thinners helps avoid blood spilling and spoilage during and after the procedure.
During this time, you should also prepare your home for recovery after the procedure. Preparation is essential because it makes you ready for the upcoming procedure. Moreover, know that you will face several limitations in twisting and bending, making it necessary to do your daily life tasks without external assistance.
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The Night Before and Day of Your Procedure
The most important part of the procedure is the night and the day before your surgery. Any mistakes during this period could delay the procedure and make it impossible for professionals to treat you. For starters, avoiding eating and drinking during this period is best because the procedure involves anesthesia.
Therefore, we recommend not eating during the day and night before the procedures. You can take some crucial medications with a sip of water if necessary.
However, you should consult with your doctor before making any decisions. The doctors can explain if doing so will interfere with your spinal cord stimulator procedure. With an empty stomach, you will not have any problem with anesthesia in your body.
In most cases, the procedure takes up to 30 to 90 minutes. Once the procedure completes and it’s safe for you to be on your own, you will move to the room for recovery after the anesthesia.
The doctor will turn on the stimulator once you wake up from the anesthesia effect, and a physician will check your health to ensure you are okay.
After The Procedure: Rest, Relax and Heal at Home
Once all the procedures complete successfully, it’s time for recovery. It’s one of the most underrated phases of treatment because patients don’t take it seriously enough. In most cases, the doctors send their patients back with information about the protocols after the operation.
Ensure paying attention to these protocols to make an effective recovery. Some of the most common recommendations shared by doctors post-surgery include:
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Resting and relaxing for fourteen days
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Avoiding incision wetness
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Not indulging in any form of vigorous activity
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No bending, twisting, or lifting,
If patients feel pain from the incisions, we recommend using ice and pain medicines for a short period. If you cannot get rest or pain relief from all these methods, you can always contact the professionals again. They can recalibrate your devices and ensure they are more suitable for spinal cord pain.
Consult an Expert Today!
Considering all the tips we have mentioned before, going for a spinal cord stimulator implant can help if you live in Los Angeles or the surrounding area. Our professionals at DrRogers can evaluate your health condition; provide you with insight, tips, and better planning before and after your procedure.
If you are still confused, you can always contact our professionals and get detailed consultation from them. We would love to help you resolve your back pain issues and help you live a happy, healthy, and fuller life.