On Monday, the Nevro Senza High-Frequency Spinal Cord Stimulator was approved by the US Federal Drug Administration (FDA). It aids in managing chronic back pain that isn't responsive to more traditional methods (intractable pain). It specifically treats the pain from back surgery failure, low to middle back pain, hip pain and leg pain.
What Is A Spinal Cord Stimulator?
The device is a small pulse generator that is implanted into the back of a person suffering pain. The implanting is done surgically. The Nevro stimulator sends electrical pulses to the spinal cord that scrambles the nerve impulses that make people feel pain.
It's inserted in the epidural spaces (spaces between spinal vertebrae) in the spine. Unlike more traditional spine stimulators who use a low-frequency pulse, the new device uses a higher frequency.
What Are the Benefits of the Nevro Stimulator?
The first benefit is the reduction of pain in persons who haven't responded well to other treatments for back pain. Of course, it does so without oral pain medications that can cause problems and addiction. For many this is its most significant benefit.
It also can work without producing that tingling, buzzing feeling (paresthesia) that is felt with more traditional stimulators. This sensation can be unpleasant enough for some people to refuse treatment with conventional devices.
Can Anyone Use The Nevro Spinal Stimulator?
Unhappily the answer is no. To get the device implanted it is first tested with a 15-20-day trial. The results are studied and analyzed by the doctor. Your doctor will also examine you to make sure you will withstand the implementation process. Since this is a type of surgical procedure, not everyone will be able to tolerate it.
How is the Generator Controlled?
The device will be implanted either in the stomach or buttocks. Once implanted it is controlled with a remote control device.
Is The Stimulator Safe?
At this time, the answer is yes. Of course, there are the typical dangers of the surgery itself. Remember all operations carry a small amount risks.
The stimulator was tested in a clinical trial. Two hundred people agreed to have it implanted. It was then tested for effectiveness and safety. A significant number of people reported that their pain levels dropped by about 50%.
There does seem to be some adverse effects with the device. These include continued pain at the surgical site and having the device lead dislocate after surgery. The device is, however, expected to go through enhancements and improvements as our knowledge of medical technology increases. Despite these adverse effects, the method is still seen as a breakthrough in back pain management.
Who Is Nervo?
The new stimulator is manufactured by the Nervo Corporation. They are a medical equipment manufacturing company based in Menlo Park California.
Conclusion
Many Americans stand to benefit from this device. Back pain is one of the leading causes for employees to miss work. Some can't use the older methods as they can cause tingling and buzzing. Others don't respond to more traditional treatment. Still others have become tolerant or even addicted to pain medications. The device is expected to give new hope to thousands.
The device is a small pulse generator that is implanted into the back of a person suffering pain. The implanting is done surgically. The Nevro stimulator sends electrical pulses to the spinal cord that scrambles the nerve impulses that make people feel pain.
It's inserted in the epidural spaces (spaces between spinal vertebrae) in the spine. Unlike more traditional spine stimulators who use a low-frequency pulse, the new device uses a higher frequency.
What Are the Benefits of the Nevro Stimulator?
The first benefit is the reduction of pain in persons who haven't responded well to other treatments for back pain. Of course, it does so without oral pain medications that can cause problems and addiction. For many this is its most significant benefit.
It also can work without producing that tingling, buzzing feeling (paresthesia) that is felt with more traditional stimulators. This sensation can be unpleasant enough for some people to refuse treatment with conventional devices.
Can Anyone Use The Nevro Spinal Stimulator?
Unhappily the answer is no. To get the device implanted it is first tested with a 15-20-day trial. The results are studied and analyzed by the doctor. Your doctor will also examine you to make sure you will withstand the implementation process. Since this is a type of surgical procedure, not everyone will be able to tolerate it.
How is the Generator Controlled?
The device will be implanted either in the stomach or buttocks. Once implanted it is controlled with a remote control device.
Is The Stimulator Safe?
At this time, the answer is yes. Of course, there are the typical dangers of the surgery itself. Remember all operations carry a small amount risks.
The stimulator was tested in a clinical trial. Two hundred people agreed to have it implanted. It was then tested for effectiveness and safety. A significant number of people reported that their pain levels dropped by about 50%.
There does seem to be some adverse effects with the device. These include continued pain at the surgical site and having the device lead dislocate after surgery. The device is, however, expected to go through enhancements and improvements as our knowledge of medical technology increases. Despite these adverse effects, the method is still seen as a breakthrough in back pain management.
Who Is Nervo?
The new stimulator is manufactured by the Nervo Corporation. They are a medical equipment manufacturing company based in Menlo Park California.
Conclusion
Many Americans stand to benefit from this device. Back pain is one of the leading causes for employees to miss work. Some can't use the older methods as they can cause tingling and buzzing. Others don't respond to more traditional treatment. Still others have become tolerant or even addicted to pain medications. The device is expected to give new hope to thousands.