Also called: SCS
Spinal Cord Stimulation involves the use of small amounts of electricity applied near the spinal cord for the treatment of painful conditions that do not respond to less invasive procedures.
The Process of Obtaining Spinal Cord Stimulator Therapy
The process is different for each patient, but there are common processes that are involved to obtain this type of therapy.
At your initial clinic visit, you and your physician will have an in-depth discussion of your pain and previous treatments as well as a discussion of risks, benefits, and alternatives to SCS therapy. Your physician will also review with you any recent MRI or CT imaging and order additional imaging if required. You might also receive a psychological screening with an outside provider as required by most insurers.
After the required studies and consultations are done, you will likely have temporary spinal cord stimulator leads placed to see if spinal cord stimulator therapy is right for you and your pain. These trials typically last 7-10 days, after which the leads are removed. After a successful trial, you could be scheduled for a permanent implant in as few as 3 weeks.
Spinal Cord Stimulator Therapy and Insurance
Spinal cord stimulator therapy is commonly covered by numerous insurers as well as Medicare for the treatment of various conditions. This can be discussed further when you see your physician and care team.
