Spinal cord stimulation in neuropathic pain following lower limb amputation
Rafaela de La Cruz Nakaura, Beatris Lucio Galete, Paulo Henrique Pires de Aguiar
Abstract
Background: Phantom limb pain (PLP) is a chronic neuropathy that affects up to 90% of amputees and is often refractory to conventional treatments, including opioids. When traditional therapies fail to provide adequate relief, surgical interventions, such as spinal cord stimulation (SCS), have shown promising results. This case report presents a 28-year-old woman who experienced chronic PLP following an above-the-knee amputation of her right leg three years ago because of a traumatic injury. Despite prolonged opioid treatment, the patient’s pain remained unresolved, with a severity of 10/10 on the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). After successful treatment using a dual-channel dorsal column stimulator, a permanent Medtronic® Prime Advanced SCS system was implanted. The patient reported significant pain relief (the VAS score was reduced to 1/10) and 90% improvement in quality of life. This case underscores the potential of SCS as an effective, minimally invasive, and opioid-sparing therapy for phantom limb pain. Objectives: To characterize the efficacy and safety of spinal cord stimulation (SCS) compared with opioid therapy for managing phantom limb pain (PLP), this study examined its impact on pain reduction, functional outcomes, and quality of life (QOL) improvements. By analyzing these factors, it explores the potential of SCS as a viable long-term solution for PLP, offering an alternative to conventional pharmacological approaches. Design: This study combined a systematic literature review with a case report. Results: The patient reported a significant reduction in pain intensity, with VAS scores decreasing from 10/10 to 1/10. She noted substantial improvements in her ability to perform daily activities, including work tasks and mobility, along with a marked enhancement in her mood and sleep quality. Additionally, her reliance on opioids diminished, and she eventually discontinued their use entirely, given that the spinal cord stimulation alone provided sufficient pain relief. She described a 90% improvement in her overall quality of life, attributing this to the sustained pain relief provided by SCS. Conclusion: This study highlights spinal cord stimulation (SCS) as an effective, minimally invasive alternative to opioid therapy for phantom limb pain (PLP). The patient showed significant pain reduction, improved quality of life, and ceased opioid use. However, the results are not generalizable, and concerns remain regarding long-term efficacy, cost, and limited availability. Further research is needed to validate these findings and improve treatment access. SCS appears to be a promising option for managing PLP and other chronic neuropathic pain conditions.
Keywords
References
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Submitted date:
03/19/2025
Accepted date:
03/31/2025