[Surgical procedures for neuropathic pain]

Brain Nerve. 2012 Nov;64(11):1307-13.
[Article in Japanese]

Abstract

Different surgical procedures are available for the treatment of many neuropathic pain syndromes. These surgical procedures can be divided into 2 main sections: non-destructive and destructive procedures. In recent years, the non-destructive neurostimulation method has undergone rapid development. Neurostimulation can be applied to a large part of the nervous system including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. Spinal cord stimulation has become a dominant pain relief modality because of its minimal invasiveness and the development of a multi-contact stimulating electrode system powered by a multi-programmable and rechargeable stimulator. Currently, destructive surgical procedures have a limited range of indications for pain control. However, the advantages of destructive procedures over non-destructive ones include continuous pain reduction without implantation of a stimulation system. Each of the surgical procedures has great potential for providing patients with significant relief from neuropathic pain.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Deep Brain Stimulation / methods
  • Electric Stimulation Therapy / methods*
  • Humans
  • Neuralgia / therapy*
  • Peripheral Nerves / surgery*
  • Spinal Cord Stimulation / instrumentation
  • Spinal Cord Stimulation / methods
  • Treatment Outcome