Open AccessImpact to Spinal Cord Stimulator Lead Integrity with Direct Suture Loop Ties
Author(s) -
Kreis Paul G.,
Fishman Scott M.,
Chau Katherine
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
pain medicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.893
H-Index - 97
eISSN - 1526-4637
pISSN - 1526-2375
DOI - 10.1111/j.1526-4637.2009.00569.x
Subject(s) - lead (geology) , medicine , fibrous joint , spinal cord stimulator , spinal cord , tying , spinal cord injury , surgery , structural integrity , spinal cord stimulation , structural engineering , engineering , geomorphology , psychiatry , computer science , geology , operating system
Background. Lead migration of spinal cord stimulators (SCS) is a significant problem, and experience suggests that anchoring sutures directly around the SCS lead may reduce migration. Such practices have been limited by concerns about potential damage to the lead and impairment of performance. Objective. This study sought to determine the extent of overt damage following maximal tension from tying sutures directly around SCS leads. Design. Twenty‐eight SCS leads were prospectively exposed to 56 suture knots that were tightened under controlled conditions to the suture's breaking point. Outcome Measures. Lead damage was evaluated by high power microscopy and assessment of lead impedance. Results. None of the leads had evidence of substantial physical damage or electrical impairment. Conclusions. This small study suggests that anchoring directly to the lead appears to produce minimal damage, but these preliminary data must be confirmed and expanded.