Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) Therapy
About the Device
Components
The SCS system is made up of two main parts:
| Component | Function | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Pulse generator (battery) | Produces and controls the electrical pulses | Under the skin of the abdomen or buttock |
| Leads (thin wires with electrodes) | Deliver the stimulation to the spinal cord | Near the spinal cord, inside the spinal canal |
The pulse generator connects to the leads, which are carefully positioned near the spinal cord.
Size
- Pulse generator: About the size of a matchbox or small card case
- Leads: About 1–2 mm in diameter
Major Manufacturers
Three companies manufacture the SCS devices most commonly used worldwide:
- Medtronic
- Boston Scientific
- Abbott
Each manufacturer offers different features and technologies. Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate device based on your specific condition and needs.
Please note:
The supervising physician of this website does not have experience with Abbott devices, so this site only covers Medtronic and Boston Scientific products. For information about Abbott devices, please consult a facility that uses them.