Open AccessUse of Observational Mechanical Gateway Connector in Spinal Cord Stimulation Trials
Author(s) -
Chong H. Kim,
Mohammed Issa,
Richard M Vaglienti
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
pain physician
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.31
H-Index - 99
eISSN - 2150-1149
pISSN - 1533-3159
DOI - 10.36076/ppj.2011/14/525
Subject(s) - medicine , observational study , spinal cord stimulation , stimulation , spinal cord , physical medicine and rehabilitation , anesthesia , psychiatry
Background: Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is an established treatment option for chronicpain. Prior to permanent implantation, temporary trials are performed to evaluate the SCStreatment. Currently there are multiple manufacturers with varying fundamental differencesin delivery and resultant paresthesias. However, trials are typically limited to one manufacturerfor the patient to evaluate.Objective: To evaluate the role of the Observational Mechanical Gateway (OMG) Connectorfor patients undergoing SCS trials.Study Design: Retrospective cohort design study. Patients undergoing SCS trials wereoffered at the end of the 7 day trial to experience stimulation using the OMG Connector.Setting: Academic university-based pain management center.Method: Participants were trialed using the OMG Connector at the end of the 7 day spinalcord stimulation trial. Data based on participants’ preference were collected.Results: The average pain score at baseline was 7.3 on a 10-point scale overall, withimprovement during the SCS trial to 2.9 overall; 3.5 in Medtronic (MT); and 2.4 in St. Jude(SJ) SCS trials (P = 0.04). The average pain score with OMG was 2.6 overall; 2.8 in MT; and2.4 in SJ (P = 0.28). In terms of overall coverage of pain distribution, paresthesia and overallsatisfaction, the P values were 0.24, 0.21 and 0.33 respectively. Overall, 12 of 16 participantsunderwent permanent implantation. One of the 4 failed trials was successfully retrialed withthe OMG Connector.Limitations: Small sample of participants and the duration of the OMG Connector trial.Conclusions: The OMG Connector offers patients another opportunity to better access theavailable treatment options during the SCS trial period.Key words: Spinal cord stimulation, OMG Connector, paresthesia, neurostimulation,constant current, constant voltage, chronic pain, dorsal column