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

Trial Outcomes

What constitutes a successful screening trial, and when should a screening trial be repeated?

The generally accepted definition of a successful screening trial is 50% pain relief reported by the patient, despite appropriate (provocative) physical activity, with stable or reduced analgesic consumption.  Patient satisfaction is, of course, an additional necessary condition for proceeding. If the screening trial was technically inadequate (pain/paresthesia overlap was not sufficient), a repeat trial should be considered.