Dr Thomas E Smith MBBS (Hons) MD FRCA FFPMRCA
What precautions do I need to take with Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) and other medical devices or procedures?
The use of following medical devices or procedures has the potential to damage the SCS system or turn the stimulation off. Medical teams should be made aware of the SCS system and may wish to discuss with Dr Smith.
Electrocautery in surgery: If electrocautery is necessary with the IPG implanted, use bipolar electrocautery. Do not use monopolar electrocautery.
Cardiac Pacemakers: SCS systems may interfere with a pacemaker or implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD)
External Defibrillation: This delivers an electrical shock to the heart to restore a normal heart rate. It is usually used in medical emergencies. It may damage an SCS system and if it does not delay emergency treatment, then the SCS system should be turned off.
Lithotripsy: Lithotripsy uses high-output sound or shock waves to treat gallstones and kidney stones
Radiation Therapy:Radiation is commonly used to treat cancer. Its ionizing energy may affect an SCS system
Ultrasonic Scanning: Ultrasonic scanning tests use very high-frequency sound waves to produce images of internal organs or tissue.
High-Output Ultrasound: High-frequency sound waves may be used for physical therapy to treat certain bone/muscle injuries, for muscle stimulation or to improve blood flow. It is best to turn the device off and keep the ultrasound away from the SCS device.
X-Ray and CT Scans: These tests may damage the stimulator if stimulation is on. But they are unlikely to damage the device if stimulation is turned off