Practice Parameters for the Use of Spinal Cord Stimulation in the Treatment of Chronic Neuropathic Pain

Medical Precautions

What medical procedures must be conducted with caution after implantation of an SCS system?

  • Routine medical tests that might interact with, or be influenced by, the stimulator (e.g., cardiac monitoring) should be interpreted judiciously.
  • Radiation therapy that might include the implanted pulse generator in the active field
  • Radiofrequency ablation and electrocautery
  • Lithotripsy
Strength of recommendation Evidence source(s)/rationale
A = Recommended or required
Validity, useful, or non-negotiable
  • Weighing risk versus potential benefit and expert consensus reveals a high likelihood of a favorable outcome