c. Peripheral Nerve Stimulation; Electrodes Placed Outside the Spinal
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) is a neuromodulation technique used for pain management. In this approach, thin, flexible electrodes are placed near the peripheral nerves—those located outside of the central nervous system—near the painful area, and electrical impulses are sent.
These impulses can modify or block the transmission of pain signals to the brain. Unlike targeting the brain or spinal cord, PNS focuses on the peripheral nerves situated in the outer regions of the body. The treatment can be applied permanently after a trial period, similar to spinal cord stimulation. The trial period is used to determine if the treatment is effective for the patient.
This therapy operates in the following manner:
• The electrodes are directly implanted onto peripheral nerves that cause pain or are located near the painful area.
• These electrodes are connected to a device that sends electrical impulses.
• The electrical impulses interfere with or diminish the transmission of pain signals to the brain, thus reducing the sensation of pain.
Some conditions where PNS is utilized include:
- Neuropathic Pain: It can be used to treat diabetic neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia, or other forms of neuropathic pain.
- Postoperative Pain: Sometimes it is used to manage pain following surgery.
- Certain Headaches: For instance, it may be effective for headaches like occipital neuralgia.
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): It is also used to manage this type of pain.
The advantages of Peripheral Nerve Stimulation include its effectiveness in patients who do not respond to other pain management methods and it is generally less invasive. However, like any medical treatment, PNS has potential risks such as the risk of infection during implantation, skin irritation, electrode migration, or device-related issues. The most appropriate treatment method for each individual should be determined based on the doctor’s evaluation and the patient’s symptoms.
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation, Stimulation Sent Through a Bluetooth Device: Some PNS systems may incorporate Bluetooth technology to allow wireless communication between the implanted electrodes and the external device that controls the stimulation. This can provide ease of use for the patient, allowing them to adjust the intensity of the stimulation or turn the device on and off as needed, often through a handheld remote control or a smartphone app. This wireless feature is an advancement in neuromodulation technology, making the treatment more accessible and customizable for patient comfort and pain management.
Peripheral nerve stimulation, sending stimuli via bluetooth device
