State of the Field Survey: Spinal Cord Stimulator Use by Academic Pain Medicine Practices

Objective The concept of neuromodulation via the use of spinal cord stimulators ( SCS ) was first established over forty years ago. Since then, its popularity has grown as numerous studies have demonstrated its utility to reduce chronic pain, improve patient function, and reduce long‐term health care costs. The aim of this study was to update the pain medicine community on the evolution of SCS practice trends in academic centers. Design Ninety‐three pain medicine fellowship programs in the U nited S tates were identified from the A ccreditation C ouncil for G raduate M edical E ducation Website and were contacted to participate in an internet survey. A 37‐item questionnaire was inspired by a previous study performed by F anciullo et al. Questions focused on three main themes regarding SCS clinical application, namely demographics, education, and technical matters. Results Completed surveys were received from 50 institutions, all of which reported performing SCS interventions. Annual implants ranged from 0 to 150. Fellowship training was cited as the most valuable modality for learning implantation. Nearly all programs reported manufacturer representative participation during SCS procedures, with a minority of program directors discouraging their involvement in fellow education. SCS trials were performed exclusively on an outpatient basis. The average length for trials was 4–7 days. The most common indication for SCS implantation was failed back surgery syndrome, which also had the highest 2‐year success rate. Post procedure, patients generally were followed up every 2–4 weeks for device reprogramming, which was performed by company representatives 92% of the time. Conclusion Standardized SCS training is imperative as the implementation of neuromodulation therapy continues to increase.