Who qualifies for a spinal cord stimulator?

Patients selected for SCS usually have had chronic debilitating pain for more than 3 months in the lower back, leg (sciatica), or arm. They also typically have had one or more spinal surgeries. You may be a candidate for SCS if : Conservative therapies have failed.

Why do I need to see a psychiatrist before I have a spinal cord stimulator?

When patients are determined to be eligible and potential candidates for SCS, a psychological assessment is often requested. Psychological evaluation is designed to help identify an ideal patient to achieve maximum benefit from an implanted device.

What is the success rate of the spinal cord stimulator?

Objective: Presently, the long-term success rate of spinal cord stimulation (SCS) ranges from 47% to 74%. SCS efficacy is inversely proportional to the passage of time between development of chronic pain syndrome and time of implantation. To improve outcomes, implantation should be performed early.

What is included in a psychological evaluation?

A psychological assessment can include numerous components such as norm-referenced psychological tests, informal tests and surveys, interview information, school or medical records, medical evaluation and observational data. A psychologist determines what information to use based on the specific questions being asked.

Who is not a good candidate for spinal cord stimulator?

Spinal cord stimulation and peripheral nerve field stimulation therapy are not for everyone. These therapies are usually not recommended for individuals who: Have a systemic infection or infection at the site where the device would be implanted. Use a demand-type cardiac pacemaker.

What is the recovery time for a spinal cord stimulator?

If you need to have your spinal cord stimulator removed, the spinal cord stimulator removal recovery time is generally brief. It should take between two to four weeks for complete healing, but as with all medical procedures this varies from patient to patient.

What is the recovery time for spinal stimulator?

What are the side effects of a spinal cord stimulation?

ADVERSE EVENTS May include: undesirable change in stimulation (uncomfortable, jolting or shocking); hematoma, epidural hemorrhage, paralysis, seroma, infection, erosion, device malfunction or migration, pain at implant site, loss of pain relief, and other surgical risks.

How do I get a full psych evaluation?

To get a real mental evaluation, you must speak with a professional mental health specialist or a psychiatrist. Your GP will help you diagnose certain other conditions such as alcohol dependence, thyroid disease, learning disabilities, and more.

What is the difference between a psychological evaluation and a psychiatric evaluation?

A psychiatric assessment is more specific. It focuses on mental illnesses, such as depression, anxiety, and psychotic disorders. A clinical psychologist performs a psychological evaluation. A psychological evaluation looks at attitude, emotions, thoughts, and behavior.