Purpose: Although spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a safe procedure, equipment-related, biological and neurological complications have been observed in previous research, particularly case reports. No reports of new neuropathic pain in the absence of neurological deficit or positive MRI findings have been described. We detail three cases of new-onset radicular pain in the L5/S1 dermatome following insertion of SCS.
Methods: This was a retrospective case series of three patients. Details of clinical background, indications for SCS and events occurring during insertion and further management were recorded.
Results: All three cases were technically difficult and required multiple epidural entry levels, with repeated passage of the electrode into and within the epidural space. All cases involved accessing epidural space T12/L1 and L1/L2. A possible explanation for the new-onset radicular pain could concern oedema to the conus medullaris, resulting from repeated passage of the electrode at the T12/L1 level. Alternative explanations could be direct trauma to transiting nerve roots, neuroplastic changes resulting in peripheral and central sensitisation and immune-mediated nerve injury.
Conclusion: MRI imaging should be analysed prior to the SCS procedure to identify the level of the conus medullaris, with the aim of avoiding repeated passage of electrodes at that level. Unintended neurological adverse events should be discussed with patients during the consent process. Careful patient selection and psychological screening may also help identify patients who may be unlikely to respond to SCS therapy. Further reporting of new radiculopathic pain following SCS insertion is required to strengthen understanding of its potential causes.
Keywords: Spinal cord stimulation; complication; conus medullaris; radiculopathy; retrospective.
© The Author(s) 2022.