Retrospective Analysis of Spinal Cord Stimulation: 15-Year Single-Center Experience

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is an established neuromodulation technique for chronic pain management. This study evaluated outcomes and complications of SCS therapy across various chronic pain conditions. This retrospective, single-center cohort study analyzed 61 patients who received SCS implantation between January 2008 and December 2023. Treatment effectiveness was defined as a >50% reduction in Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) scores. Patient satisfaction was assessed using a 5-point Likert scale. Secondary outcomes included complications, revision requirements, and device longevity. Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS) was the most common indication (73.8%), followed by peripheral vascular disease (PVD) (8.2%). Overall treatment effectiveness was achieved in 90.2% of patients, with 100% success rates for complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), PVD, phantom pain, peripheral nerve damage, spinal tumor, and stroke-related neuropathic pain. Among FBSS patients, 86.7% achieved significant pain reduction. Patient satisfaction was high, with 82.0% reporting positive satisfaction (67.2% very satisfied, 14.8% partially satisfied). Revision surgery was required in 16.4% of cases, treatment termination occurred in 8.2%, and implantable pulse generator replacement was necessary in 18.0%. Treatment failure rate was only 3.3%. SCS demonstrated high treatment effectiveness and patient satisfaction across various chronic pain conditions. The favorable safety profile with low treatment failure rates supports SCS as an important component of comprehensive pain management strategies when applied with appropriate patient selection criteria.