Spinal Cord Stimulator
Also written as: SCS — Spinal Cord Stimulator
Implantable device that delivers electrical pulses to the spinal cord to manage chronic pain conditions.
Full Definition
A spinal cord stimulator (SCS) is an implantable neuromodulation device consisting of thin wires (leads) placed in the epidural space near the spinal cord and a pulse generator that delivers controlled electrical impulses. The electrical stimulation interferes with pain signal transmission to the brain, providing relief for chronic pain conditions such as failed back surgery syndrome, complex regional pain syndrome, and neuropathic pain. The system can be programmed externally to adjust stimulation parameters.
Usage
Usage note: Can be abbreviated as SCS in subsequent mentions within the same document.
In Context
- "The spinal cord stimulator trial period demonstrated 70% pain reduction before permanent implantation." — Pre-surgical evaluation report
- "Spinal cord stimulator programming requires careful titration to achieve optimal pain relief." — Device management protocol