1-kHz high-frequency spinal cord stimulation alleviates chronic refractory pain after spinal cord injury: a case report

Chiaki Yamada, Aiko Maeda, Katsuyuki Matsushita, Shoko Nakayama, Kazuhiro Shirozu, Ken Yamaura

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1 Citation (Scopus)

Abstract

Background: Patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) frequently complain of intractable pain that is resistant to conservative treatments. Here, we report the successful application of 1-kHz high-frequency spinal cord stimulation (SCS) in a patient with refractory neuropathic pain secondary to SCI. Case presentation: A 69-year-old male diagnosed with SCI (C4 American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale A) presented with severe at-level bilateral upper extremity neuropathic pain. Temporary improvement in his symptoms with a nerve block implied peripheral component involvement. The patient received SCS, and though the tip of the leads could not reach the cervical vertebrae, a 1-kHz frequency stimulus relieved the intractable pain. Conclusions: SCI-related symptoms may include peripheral components; SCS may have a considerable effect on intractable pain. Even when the SCS electrode lead cannot be positioned in the target area, 1-kHz high-frequency SCS may still produce positive effects.

Original languageEnglish
Article number46
JournalJA Clinical Reports
Volume7
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2021

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine

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