To explore the efficacy of combined bidirectional spinal cord stimulation (SCS) for treating refractory neuropathic pelvic pain.
Approach:
Case Description: A 63-year-old woman with severe pelvic pain following thoracic aortic aneurysm repair underwent combined anterograde and retrograde SCS placement, utilizing high-frequency and tonic stimulation.
Technical Challenges: The case involved difficulties in retrograde sacral lead placement, which were managed through adjustments in technique and equipment.
Key Findings:
The patient reported a 60% reduction in pelvic pain within 24 hours of SCS trial.
Hip pain developed with tonic sacral stimulation, leading to its discontinuation while high-frequency stimulation continued.
Interpretation:
Limitations:
The etiology of the patient's pelvic pain remains unclear.
The study is based on a single case report, limiting generalizability.
Conclusion:
Further research is warranted to clarify the efficacy and optimal application of combined bidirectional SCS for refractory neuropathic pelvic pain.
Burnout is easing. Sleep science is getting weird. And dental schools have been winging cadaver training for 50 years. This week's research is full of good news that immediately complicates itself.
A small observational study in collegiate football players found microbiome associations after nonconcussive head impacts, though findings were limited by severe underpowering and high attrition