Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS)
Risks and Complications — Read This First
Before considering SCS, it is important to understand the following risks.
Possible Complications
| Complication | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Lead migration (electrode movement) | The electrode can shift from its original position, changing or reducing the effect. Reprogramming or additional surgery may be needed |
| Infection | Infection can develop at the electrode or device site. This may require antibiotics or, in some cases, removal of the device |
| Changes in pain | The expected pain relief may not occur, or new pain may develop |
| Hardware problems | Battery depletion, connection issues, or device malfunction can occur |
| Reoperation | Any of the above problems may require additional surgery |
What You Should Know About These Risks
- The complications listed above are not rare — anyone considering SCS should understand that these can and do occur
- Complication rates vary depending on the device type, the experience of the center, and the patient's condition
- Newer devices have reported improvements, but risk is not eliminated
- Some complications can be managed with device reprogramming; others may require additional surgery or device removal
Ask your doctor: "What is the complication rate at your center?" and "What types of complications are most common?" Get a clear explanation of the specific risks in your case.