Epidural Spinal Cord Stimulation
Seance of wednesday 01 april 2026 (La douleur post-opératoire, Neuromodulation)
DOI number : 10.26299/tgvc-7942/emem.2026.14.04
Abstract
Epidural spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is an established neuromodulation technique used in the treatment of chronic pain conditions refractory to conventional therapies, particularly neuropathic pain.
This approach involves the implantation of electrodes within the epidural space to deliver targeted electrical stimulation to the dorsal columns of the spinal cord. The therapeutic effect is primarily based on modulation of ascending nociceptive pathways and activation of inhibitory spinal mechanisms, leading to reduced transmission of pain signals to the brain.
Spinal cord stimulation is commonly used in conditions such as complex regional pain syndrome, persistent spinal pain syndrome following spine surgery, and certain refractory neuropathic pain disorders.
Recent technological advances have led to the development of new stimulation paradigms, including high-frequency stimulation and burst stimulation, which aim to improve clinical outcomes and patient comfort.
When appropriate patient selection is performed, numerous studies have demonstrated significant reductions in pain intensity, improvements in quality of life, and decreased reliance on analgesic medications.
Thus, spinal cord stimulation represents an important therapeutic option within the interventional management of chronic neuropathic pain.
This approach involves the implantation of electrodes within the epidural space to deliver targeted electrical stimulation to the dorsal columns of the spinal cord. The therapeutic effect is primarily based on modulation of ascending nociceptive pathways and activation of inhibitory spinal mechanisms, leading to reduced transmission of pain signals to the brain.
Spinal cord stimulation is commonly used in conditions such as complex regional pain syndrome, persistent spinal pain syndrome following spine surgery, and certain refractory neuropathic pain disorders.
Recent technological advances have led to the development of new stimulation paradigms, including high-frequency stimulation and burst stimulation, which aim to improve clinical outcomes and patient comfort.
When appropriate patient selection is performed, numerous studies have demonstrated significant reductions in pain intensity, improvements in quality of life, and decreased reliance on analgesic medications.
Thus, spinal cord stimulation represents an important therapeutic option within the interventional management of chronic neuropathic pain.