SCS Problems

Gill - Spinal Cord Stimulator is installed

2009-11-25T01:02:00.000-08:00

Good luck with your trial. I had my trial in August and found it fantastic. Too be honest I didn't find it painful as I was given a local. I had my permanent implant at the end of October and stayed in hospital for 2 days (I live in UK)It was very painful after but was given medicine to help and I had a morphine pump on when I came back from theatre and this stayed on overnight.

I have had good and bad days since surgery and am due back for my first outpatients appointment today. I do think you need to be prepared that its going to be painful after the operation. I think that I have been really sore as the battery is implanted in my stomach and the leads have had to be fed round. Initially my whole side and back was black and blue but now most of my pain is where the leads are joining the electode in my back.

I am now 4 weeks after the operation and still not able to do much but the specialist did say it can take up to 6 months to fully recover. Worse thing is not being able to drive for at least 4 weeks!!! My advice is go ahead it certainly helps but do be prepared to be sore afterwards and make sure you have plenty to occupy yourself with!I will let you know how I get on with my check up and any more advice I get.Good luck.

My SCS Story - Why I post

2009-11-24T23:04:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone.

I have had such a response to my posts about my various procedures; I have created a separate site dedicated to this subject matter.

Please feel free to post comments here and on http://scsproblems.blogspot.com/

Before I had my surgeries, I couldn't find anything dealing with the aftermath. I'm doing this so people can get a view, a personal view of what to expect because I was not aware of how I would feel after the procedure and how the trial would be different from the actual implant.
Please share your experience so others can get an expectation of the entire process.

Here are all the posts I have done on my procedures:
http://www.dhadm.com/content/my-life-under-the-knife-dealing-with-chronic-pain/
http://www.dhadm.com/content/ipg-ans-scs-and-dealing-with-chronic-pain/
http://www.dhadm.com/content/spinal-stimulation-medical-devices/
http://www.dhadm.com/content/high-tech-implant-phase-one-2/
http://www.dhadm.com/content/high-tech-implant-phase-one/
http://www.dhadm.com/content/high-tech-implant-phase-one-complete/
http://www.dhadm.com/content/spinal-cord-stimulator-is-installed/
http://www.dhadm.com/content/no-staples-spinal-stimulator-implant-in-place/

Marianne - My Trial

2009-11-24T22:51:00.000-08:00

The trial is painful because they don't knock you out. The final implantation you will look like someone beat you with a bat. I have two four inch cuts, six one inch cuts.

You will have alot of pain after the implant. I think you need at least 4 weeks recovery if you do manual work. Don't lift anything heavy. It has helped my pain a bit. I still have to take meds. Mine was done in August.

Most hospitals will let you stay 24 hours after the surgery. I did and it helped so much. However surgery centers won't let you stay. I hope it helps you.

Sandra - SCS Trial

2009-11-24T18:54:00.001-08:00

I’m having my trial on Dec 7! Really excited and really scared at the same time. Hopefully the surgery will be the week after that. I hope to return to work after Christmas break. That gives me about 2 weeks recovery. What do you think? Will that give me enough time or am I being overly optimistic???

Lindsay got an implant

2009-11-24T18:51:00.000-08:00

Hello All!

I just had a implant put in on Friday 11/20/09. The doctors said the surgery could take between an hour to two hours. The way my doctor performed the surgery I was knocked out for the leads to be put in, woken up to see where the stimulation was working, and then put back out for the battery pack to be placed under the skin. I do not remember waking up during the procedure at all. It took an hour for my procedure to be completed. After the surgery there was a little pain and discomfort but nothing unbearable. My mom came and stayed with me to help with laundry and cleaning, but I was able to move slowly. I even went out to the store with my family less than 24 hours after the surgery. I am extremely hopeful that I will have success with this surgery. I will keep you updated!

Cathie :
Lindsay - where did they implant your battery pack?

Lindsay:
They implanted my batter pack in the buttock area.

Spinal Cord Stimulation: Risks and Benefits

2009-11-20T12:20:00.000-08:00

Risks and benefits As with any surgical procedure, there are risks, including:
Infection
Bleeding
Headache
Allergic Reaction
Spinal Fluid Leakage
Paralysis

In addition, there are some risks that are specific to the spinal cord stimulator. These may include:
Stimulation stops or only works intermittently
Stimulation occurs in the wrong location
Over-stimulation

The lead could move or become damaged (this may require surgical repositioning or removal)
Poor system connection

However, there are also numerous benefits to using this type of therapy, including:
Spinal cord stimulation allows you to be in control of your pain relief - you decide when it is needed

Since the system is portable, you should be able to resume all of your usual daily life activities at home and at work

You can travel, since your pain relief travels with you (keep in mind that sitting for long periods of time can increase pain)

You will be able to participate in most recreational activities such as walking, swimming, and gardening

Alleviating some or all of you pain will have a positive effect on your mental outlook, decrease stress, and improve your overall quality of life

Things to Keep in Mind: Since spinal cord stimulators utilize electric impulses as well as magnets, there are a few precautions users must keep in mind, including:
1) Do not drive or use heavy equipment while the stimulator is activated. However, you can use the stimulator if you are a passenger.
2) Spinal cord stimulators may set off metal detectors (such as in airports). You will be given special identification that certifies you have a spinal cord stimulation system. Be sure to carry this with you to get you through these checkpoints.
3) Anti-theft devices (such as in retail stores) may temporarily increase stimulation if your system is on when you walk through. This will not harm the system, but may not be pleasant for you. It's usually best to turn off the stimulator before walking through any of these devices.
4) When flying, airline personnel may require you to turn off the stimulator during take off and landing.
5) Normal household equipment, such as cell or portable phones, computers, TVs, microwaves, and other appliances are safe to use with the stimulator. The stimulator should not cause any interference with these items.
6) The magnet on the stimulator control device may cause damage to certain items or erase information on items with magnetic strips such as bank or credit cards, video or audiocassettes, and computer disks. The magnet can also stop watches and clocks, so you may want to store the magnet at least two inches away.

Is it right for you? While there is no guarantee that spinal cord stimulation will alleviate all of your discomfort, most patients report a 50% - 70% decrease in pain. This decrease can make your pain much more manageable and allow you to return to a more active life. Not everyone can benefit from this therapy; however, it might be worth a visit to your spine specialist to see if you are a good candidate.

Spinal cord stimulator - Description

2009-11-20T12:16:00.000-08:00

A spinal cord stimulator (SCS), also known as a dorsal column stimulator, (DCS) is an implantable medical device used to treat chronic neurological pain.

An electric impulse generated by the device produces a tingling sensation that alters the perception. The device is implanted into the epidural space either by percutaneous approach or by surgical laminectomy or laminotomy.

A pulse generator or RF receiver is implanted in the abdomen or buttocks. A wire harness connects the lead to the pulse generator.

Tessie responds to Cathie

2009-11-20T11:58:00.000-08:00

Before I answer your questions, I have to tell you about something awesome: since my SCS is not great yet (although I do have high hopes), my Doc and I decided to try acupuncture (I was previously doing Craniosacral Therapy which is great, but insurance won't cover it now - would try for anyone if you can afford it).

I went to my Doc (who is certified in acup.) for the 1st time the other day, and the results were incredible. Although I was extremely tired/exhausted for a couple of days, I literally had no leg pain for several days now (that is my main pain area - left leg all the way down). I have more sessions to go, but I can't believe I haven't barely used the SCS in the past 2 days. Something to try if you can! Back to your questions, my Doc suggested to the Reps that I try the Regional guru from Chicago (I live in WI) as a last resort before moving the leads. It didn't work, but he did introduce the "manual mode" to the Reps and we use is (better results for me).

As far as another surgery, and making things worse, that could happen to be honest, and I cried a lot of tears about it.....and it did make me weaker and farther behind..........BUT, I decided I couldn't live with the rib pain/stimulation, so I felt like I had to go for it. It is much better now (they still had problems with the procedure of keeping it away from the rib area, so had to decide to aim for the leg and not the back right now), but it did work out in the end. I also have to say that after I threatened to "grab and torture" the anesthesiologist if he didn't give me more pain/sedation meds, the 2nd surgery was MUCH more tolerable, and the recovery was easier after a week or so.

I didn't have to have the battery moved, so that was a lot less sensitive. So, my device is not bad for comfort: mine is in my butt, though, so I still bump it, and it hurts once in a while (protrudes a little when I sit and some jeans are uncomfortable if they rub in that area, but not bad. If you have any other questions, please let me know. I am certainly not an expert, but may be a little farther along than some (I have certainly had most of the problems associated with the surgeries and healing though). It certainly does me good as well to talk with others, because I have / still sometimes feel frustrated and depressed.

I do remember feeling like things were never going to get better, that the 3 months + 3 months were going to be an eternity and even remember telling my Mom that I didn't think I was going to make it that long because it was so hard, and depressed that I was going to have to start over AGAIN; but it did get easier as I went, and it is getting easier every day. A lot of it can be a pain in the butt (literally and figuratively), but it seems to be worth it so far!

Hope everything is going well for you today!

Kelly - complex regional pain syndrome

2009-11-16T07:33:00.000-08:00

I have had back, leg and foot pain since falling 3 years ago. I have had two fusions at L4-5 and a foot fusion since then. I have tried injections, nerve blocks, pt; I have had all kinds of xrays, mris, ct scans.

Bottom line: I have a herniated disk above the fusions, disk degen., significant scarring from surgeries, and as for foot, I have what may be complex regional pain syndrome. Both foot and back drs. have mentioned a spinal cord stimulator. I do not want that thing. First of all, if it masks pain with a buzzy feeling that would drive me nuts. Secondly, how do I know it would work? Third, I do not want the pain of surgeries, recovery from those fusions was so, so hard and awful. Fourth, there is significant risk. And what about cost? My problem is that I am running out of options. Since I fell in 2006 I have not had one pain free hour. I am taking Tyl. 3 around the clock. Any thoughts?

Tessie Reply to Cathie

2009-11-14T13:58:00.000-08:00

Cathie -
Have they done all they can with programming? I had to have the Regional guy come from the next state to try programming, and he had to show the Reps how to do manual programming (I even got to do some of it myself - much better results). I had the same problem (rib pain / stimulation), and unfortunately they had to move the leads. The problem with this procedure is that after hours of torture, they expect you to be able to recognize and verbalize where you feel the stimulation; when all you want to do is get the heck out of there!

I know what you mean about the therapist! Once again it seems like the solution causes more problems. I started PT 3 weeks ago, and we still haven’t gotten all of my muscles even firing yet. The PT said that the muscles on the “bad” side are so atrophied, there is about a 1 1/2″ difference between sides! It’s hell right now, but I know I have to do it.

I guess I’m sounding even more depressing - sorry! I will say this, even though I had to have the leads moved and spend another 3 months on restrictions, I am glad I did it. My programming isn’t the best yet, but it is a lot better than with the rib stimulation. And, seeing that neither the Doc, nurse or PT will give me a trade-in on a newer model (body, that is), I have to keep going. Things may seem insurmountable right now, but it will get better. Keep reaching out to people you know will listen, and please don’t give up.

I hope things are better with each day!
Take care

Cathie - neuromodulation device implanted

2009-11-14T13:57:00.000-08:00

After a failed back surgery in ‘07, I had a neuromodulation device implanted in my back August of ‘09. Three leads were routed to different areas of my lower back. My problem is the pain under my rib cage, back left, just above the device. Thinking it was the top lead, they turned that one off today. There’s improvement, but, dang!, the pain is still there, until I turn it off and suffer with the original pain this thing was suppose to ease. My next step is a therapist…I think I’m sinking into depression.

Linda - occipital nerve stimulators

2009-11-14T13:56:00.000-08:00

I got my first occipital nerve stimulator in 2001. It dropped pain from 9+ to about a 6. A 6 is pretty high still, but night and day difference from 9+. After 5 yrs. the battery went down & since the lead had migrated, another new system was inplanted with 2 paddle electrodes place on the right occipital nerve.

This second implant with the double electrodes dropped my pain level to 1 or 2 with NO narcotic pain medicines. My ONS is on 24/7, so having to have battery changed next week. Yes, the surgery is very painful, but for me it is so little to endure inorder to be at a lower pain level. Good luck to all of you.

Tessie - Please read if you are going to have SCS surgery!

2009-11-14T13:55:00.000-08:00

Please read if you are going to have SCS surgeryI had to have my leads moved on 7/10, which basically meant doing the whole surgery over. I was scared to death to even think about going through that again (read previous comments). I told my Doctor (with tears, of course), that I could handle having the procedure again if I had to (what other choice did I have!), but that I would not proceed until he promised me that I would not have the pain I did with the 1st one.

I explained that the 1st surgery was like torture, and that I felt everything. HE TOLD ME THAT NO ONE SHOULD HAVE A LOT OF PAIN WITH THIS SURGERY, AND THAT I SHOULDN’T FEEL EVERYTHING. He told me to let him know if I felt anything, and they would give me more meds.

I must have told everyone involved in the surgery a dozen or more times that I felt everything the 1st time, and made them promise me that it wouldn’t happen again. I even told the Anesthesiologist that I would grab his nearest body part and yank if he didn’t give me enough numbing/pain meds (hey, extreme situations call for extreme measures!).

Anyway, to make a long story short, I was pleasantly surprised that the 2nd surgery was much more tolerable. Yes, I had some pain, but it was nothing like the 1st. I have a very high tolerance for sedation, and I heard the docs commenting during the surgery that they had “given me a lot of quality meds”, but they still gave me more (they actually believed me) when I asked.
So, if you’re having this done, you don’t have to suffer in silence.

Tell your Doc, tell the hospital when they call for your pre-op, tell them when they talk to you before surgery, tell them whenever you start to feel something - tell them that you are having pain and want more meds, ask them if you can go to sleep during the last part (where they make the pocket and tunnel the leads - you can!). I thought that my Docs the 1st time heard me yelling and crying, and were just ignoring me, but they are so into what they are doing they didn’t know that I was in a lot of pain.

Like the Doc said, you have to tell them if something is painful, speak up, get their attention, be assertive, do everything you can to help yourself.
It will make a world of difference!
Good health to everyone!

Gill - Hi

2009-11-14T13:54:00.002-08:00

Hi
My name is Gill. I am due to go into hospital hopefully today if a bed comes free for a SCS to be fitted for lower back pain/leg pain. Just looking at this site whilst waiting for call to say to go in. Op supposed to be tomorrow. Would be so grateful for some feed back from people that have had the same procedure. I’m scared stiff!!!

Lynda - Pain

2009-11-14T13:54:00.001-08:00

PAIN should be expected! With the help of med’s everyday living will be easier. I know the stories are a little bit scarey but i know for a fact after living with crs that this has helped me living with it along with my med’s. The pain was unreal and though i thought what have i done after i had it, now after 6 months later now in physical therapy i know i am soon on my way to a better life.

I had the inplant put in my neck and they had to remove bone, and then found out after a 4 1/2 hour surgery it was not inplated right so i had to go through this all over again…….had it done again in May, now after 6 month i have started p/t and it hurts like hell but i know i will be back to atleast 1/2 better then what i was! But please know IT IS GOING TO HURT LIKE HELL………………on my way to recovery!

Sandra - Impant or Not

2009-11-14T13:53:00.001-08:00

I am in the process of getting approval for the implant. I just had another myelogram on Friday to ensure that my fusion at L5S1 done in Aug 2006 is 100% healed, If it is then we will proceed with the trial and then the implant. I’ve heard some goo and some bad things about this surgery.

I teach 4 year old preschool in a public school and wonder how long I will have to be out of work. I have been dealing with chronic pain since an injury in Dec 2005 lifting a child while working in a daycare. I am really scared about the pain. What should I expect?

Marianne | spinal lamenectomy

2009-11-14T13:51:00.000-08:00

I had a spinal lamenectomy approximately one year ago for a ruptured disc. When my neuro surgeon was pulling out he nicked my sciatic nerve. Upon waking from the surgery I had severe pain that I did not have prior to the surgery. I told the hospital at the time I had this pain. They told me to call my doctor when I got home. I did and they put me on neurontin which made me feel in a drunken state all of the time. I went back to the doctor for the follow up and he told me the pain I was having was because he released the nerve and I was beginning to feel sensations I didn’t have before. Make a long story short two more disc ruptures and many shots in my back I was still in terrible pain. It has been over a year now and I have had 4 back surgeries, this including the stimulator surgery. I switched doctors and the pain management doctor sugested the Medtronic spinal stimulator. I had it temporarily implanted in the doctors office about a month ago for a 4 day trial. The temporary implantation was terribly painful and since my blood pressure kept falling I could not have sedation. My blood pressure fell to 60/40 because of the severe pain I experienced while implanting the temporary unit. I wore the unit for the 4 days and then sechuled the permanent implant. I was terrified that I would have to experience the same pain during the final implantation. Mind you I can take pain, living with it for so long but honestly it brought me to tears while implanting it.

I had the final implantation about 3 weeks ago. I have one 4 inch cut at the shoulder blades or where your bra comes across. I had another four inch cut down in the right side of my back. I had additional one inch cuts all total about 6 of them in different areas of my back. I looked like I stepped into a war zone when I looked at my back. I took some rather frightening looking pictures of the surgery. It is now 3 weeks after the surgery and my back is still black and blue and swollen but getting better. I was told not to bend, or twist or lift anything over 5 pounds. This I have been complying with. I got into the car the other day and one of the leads must have pulled away and the pain was miserable the doctor told me to take muscle relaxers to relieve the pain. After about 3 days the pain finally subsided. I am still taking hydrocodone 10mg because the pain is still there. When I turn off the stimulator the original pain comes back with a vengence. I always say my pain is my constant companion I can always count on and that it is the gift that keeps on giving. I have sever pain under my feet that the stimulator doesn’t seem to address.

I guess so far I would suggest getting the stimulator. But be so careful not to pull any leads as to migrate your stimulation so the proper areas are not stimulated. It really just tricks your brain into not feeling the pain. I have a bulge in my back at the tranplant site about 3 by 3 inches.
My neuro surgeon here in St. Louis told me that the Memphis Neuro Surgeon damaged me for life with his mistake. However with any surgery there are risks. I am unable to work and have been off for a year now. I don’t know what the future hold with the stimulator but so far it is ok. I am getting used to the stimulation feeling and find myself thinking it isn’t even on. But when I turn it off I feel the lack of stimulation. If I move certain ways I have greater charging than in other postures. I get jolts when I sneaze or perhaps with fast movements.
I would just love to have my life back before all of this. By the way the temporary was 6,000 dollars. I haven’t been shown how much the the permanent one is but I was told approximately 30,000 dollars.

I have sympathy for others experiencing chronic pain. it is not fun but so far I am have some relief perhaps you could too.
Marianne

From Howard

2009-11-14T13:50:00.000-08:00

First if I could wish that everyone on here had a perfect experience it would be wonderful thinking. Mine was about a 5 month process with doctors, trial, implant then 2nd surgery. I understood everything from the beginning to end and also had my brother in law with me at all times so if I missed something he would hear it and I highly recommend others to do the same. First my Meds are (2) 40 Mg Oxycontin and 4 Fentanyl 600 Mcg Pops daily and of course one of the reason for this is to get off the Pain Meds before they fry my brains to a crisp or blow my heart out.

The Trail was a breeze and my Neurologist would not do anything for me prior to the implant. First mistake Anesthesiologist did not go in like the Trail which we just assumed. Never once spoke about current Meds and what kind of pain to expect. WIthin 6 days the right lead came off of spine thus had to have the 2nd operation. Very close to just saying Take It Out and really wish I had. I had visited with at least 12 Neuro Ortho Surgeon to try and get help all turning me down and recommending the stimulator got to be I was thinking that they sell these at the Mall with so many recommendations. First surgery Pain was incredible and thought nothing could be worse than this until the 2nd surgery. I know that my dentist usually tells me I will be in a lot of discomfort after the injections wear off so use to years ago provide me with Percoset for the pain. I could have doubled up on my regular Meds but would not have help at all.
I am a very open person that gets right to the point with doctors and went as far as to ask him after the 1st surgery did he use a dull saw to make the incision. 2nd time anound he was more conscience on better securing the leads than anything else. Also Rep for BS was little help on what to expect and continually opt to surgeon. No he saved the dull saw for the 2nd operation and the Pain is Horrific since I just went through it 3 days ago on 7/27/09.
Another sad part of our Health Care System is this is all Out-Patient unlike 20 years ago when one would have spent at least 2 days maybe 3 in hospital for Proper Care, Antibiotics and Pain Medication No I was just told nothing. Like I said previous did this for Pain Relief and to get away from the Meds that are getting Harder and Harder to obtain. If we could all only go bsck in time most of us would make Right on a Wrong that was made years ago. Another thing I found if you have weak spots like I do in the abdomen taht none of these doctor can seem to tie together the Stimulator will surely let you know by Blasting them 1st even though you may be using a low setting.

Last I was amazed by a comment of one of the many Neuro Surgeons at John Hopkins who when asked stated the overall success rate for Spinal Surgery is about 60%, Not Good. Felt even worse while I asked the same at the Univ. of Penna and got an answer of just over 50%. Either scenario it is a Bust or Failing Grade. About all we can do is live one day at a time and Pray that one day these doctors will come up with a way of somehow helping Spinal Patients live a more peaceful and Pain Free life.

Doc Again- Tessie

2009-11-14T13:48:00.000-08:00

Just came back from the Doc and they are sending the “guru” to see me - haven’t been able to capture pain areas yet. If he doesn’t get it worked out, they will have to move the leads - I’m tough, but shaking thinking about it - I’m just getting back on my feet and don’t want to start over AGAIN!

I too, am dying to play golf again - it’s been 5 1/2 years. I can live without some of the other things I can’t do (softball, volleyball, bowling, etc), but golf is my favorite.
I said we are leading parallel lives because I hurt myself lifting someone also. I was doing CNA work while waiting to start an accelerated BSN program. Guess that’s out the door! Went into teaching training courses for employees working in Group Homes, and got laid off (1st job back after 2 1/2 years of surgeries!). Now I’m back off the waiting list for DVR, and hoping to do something meaningful when I grow up (41 now).
Anyway, here’s hoping!

Another Implant Story from AA

2008-06-08T23:17:00.000-07:00

I had spinal cord stim implanted in march of 08 at first it was wonderful. about three weeks into it i started to get stimulation in my stomach. it was annoying at first then it started to cause problems with eating and making me feel sea sick most of the time.

I met with the reps from boston sci and they said that all 16 trigger points were getting my stomach they advised me to keep it off until dr gets x-ray then after having off for about a week the battery site became very sensative to the point that i couldn't sit in a chair or lie on my back.

About the second week the pain was so bad i was hospitalized for a week because my blood pressure was sky high from the pain. i would not recomend one of these stimulators to anyone so many doctors told me when i was hospitalized that they are over rated and they cause more problems in the long run. well i get this god forsaken torchor device out of me this week but now i'll be back to step one with chronic lower lumbar pain

ANS Spinal Cord Stimulator Problems

2008-04-20T22:20:00.000-07:00

Here is a great (bad) read about ANS SCS problems, make sure you look at the responses.

Counsel.net/chatboards/product_liability

Some of the concerns, comments and/or stories scare the hell out of me because ANS is the device that is inside of me.

Spinal Cord Stimulation: Risks and Benefits

2008-04-20T20:25:00.000-07:00

Below is an experts POV on SCS. If you have been told this procedure is for you or you are considering this procedure as a last resort, read what Edgar G. Dawson, M.D. has to say and read the other posts.

Risks and benefits As with any surgical procedure, there are risks, including:
Infection
Bleeding
Headache
Allergic Reaction
Spinal Fluid Leakage
Paralysis

In addition, there are some risks that are specific to the spinal cord stimulator. These may include:
Stimulation stops or only works intermittently
Stimulation occurs in the wrong location
Over-stimulation
The lead could move or become damaged (this may require surgical repositioning or removal)
Poor system connection

However, there are also numerous benefits to using this type of therapy, including:
Spinal cord stimulation allows you to be in control of your pain relief - you decide when it is needed
Since the system is portable, you should be able to resume all of your usual daily life activities at home and at work
You can travel, since your pain relief travels with you (keep in mind that sitting for long periods of time can increase pain)

You will be able to participate in most recreational activities such as walking, swimming, and gardening
Alleviating some or all of you pain will have a positive effect on your mental outlook, decrease stress, and improve your overall quality of life

Things to Keep in Mind: Since spinal cord stimulators utilize electric impulses as well as magnets, there are a few precautions users must keep in mind, including:
1) Do not drive or use heavy equipment while the stimulator is activated. However, you can use the stimulator if you are a passenger.
2) Spinal cord stimulators may set off metal detectors (such as in airports). You will be given special identification that certifies you have a spinal cord stimulation system. Be sure to carry this with you to get you through these checkpoints.
3) Anti-theft devices (such as in retail stores) may temporarily increase stimulation if your system is on when you walk through. This will not harm the system, but may not be pleasant for you. It's usually best to turn off the stimulator before walking through any of these devices.
4) When flying, airline personnel may require you to turn off the stimulator during take off and landing.
5) Normal household equipment, such as cell or portable phones, computers, TVs, microwaves, and other appliances are safe to use with the stimulator. The stimulator should not cause any interference with these items.
6) The magnet on the stimulator control device may cause damage to certain items or erase information on items with magnetic strips such as bank or credit cards, video or audiocassettes, and computer disks. The magnet can also stop watches and clocks, so you may want to store the magnet at least two inches away.

Susan - Post Response

2008-04-20T20:17:00.001-07:00

I had a Boston Scientific SCS put in on 4/4/08. No one told me how horrible I would feel–I have diarrhea and can’t stop crying plus I have pain in my shoulder blades. Can someone please tell me how long I’m going to feel lousy? I don’t see that it’s helping my leg pain at all even though I thought the trial helped me some. I have neuropathy from a car accident.

Ginger - Post Response

2008-04-20T20:15:00.000-07:00

Another SCS response to my post -
Had mine implanted in Dec, 2007. Found out that 95% of Docs doing the implants are F@#$ing anesethiologists and NOT neuro-surgeons. I had mine implanted for C-5 to C-7 related upper extremity pain. I now have partial paralysis from the waist down. My doctor dropped me and the SCS company is NOT helping me at all. I can’t raise my arms over my head, no range of motion in my neck, and can not bend at the waist or dress my self. I’m 4 months out, and now traveling to a different state to see if I can find a neurosurgeon to either remove or fix this. The stimulator has come undone and is putting ALOT presure on my spine. I really hope it doesn’t perforate my spine, I really don’t want to be a quadrapalegic because of some greedy doctor. The company that makes my SCS pays their doctors a 10 thousand dollar “finder” fee for every one they implant. That’s not counting the 90 thousand me and my insurance paid this doctor. I did find that there are only 3 SCS company’s in America. I think it’s time for class action lawsuits against the SCS companies. The Federal government has really screwed us all when it comes to holding the greedy doctors accountable for what they are doing to us. I’m in four times more pain now than I was before. The RSD pain is fully back. My doctor bought himself a 150 thousand dollar Mercedes 2 weeks after my insurance company paid for my surgery. Then he expanded his office and did 3 more SCS implants within weeks of mine. I have a 5 year old that wakes up screaming because she thinks this is going to kill me. The surgery was SUPPOSED to fix me, not make me lose 25 pounds. I know it could be alot worse. I just have to remind myself that daily. All 4 of my kids are healthy, and there are alot of kids out there that aren’t.

Nycole - Second Response

2008-04-20T20:13:00.000-07:00

Here is a second response from Nycole :
I ended up having the scs replaced the day before thanksgiving. Was supposed to be released on Thanksgiving to be home at least with my kids, and I couldn’t even get up to walk, I didn’t even get to see my three babies on that day. Well, it is what it is, eh. i am working directly with the scs co to see if they will compensate me somehow, we will see. My surgery was not normal, for some reason, I have a 10 inch scar on my back when normally it’s about a 2 inch one??? Is what I was told by every single other doctor. I have been in pain for 6 weeks with horrible horrible muscle spasms, the stimulator does work great but can’t use much because sometimes makes the spasms worse. They took out almost 6 inches of bone, when I was told it would be 1/2 inch!!!!! Will let u know if the scs legal dept works with me and reimburses me for pain/suffering and costs incurred for childcare, house cleaning, and the like. It’s been a literal nightmare. I would NOT have done this surgery had I know that it would have been this extensive, I would have waited….again, it’s said and done. I’ve been trying to think things could be worse, but apparently every time I turn around, I’m this phenomenon! Good luck to all of you in pain. I pray for people in pain every single nite and their families. It effects us all.