Spinal Cord Stimulator (SCS) in Castle Rock
What is a Spinal Cord Stimulator?
A spinal cord stimulator (SCS) is an implanted device that delivers mild electrical signals to the spinal cord to interrupt pain signals before they reach the brain. Many patients describe the effect as replacing their pain with a gentle tingling sensation, or in newer devices, simply reducing the pain without any noticeable sensation at all. SCS is sometimes described as "noise-canceling headphones for pain" - it does not fix the underlying condition, but it changes how your nervous system processes the pain signals.
SCS is reserved for patients with chronic nerve pain that has not responded to more conservative treatments like medications, injections, and physical therapy. It is one of the most effective options available for patients with persistent pain after spine surgery, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), and other refractory nerve pain conditions.
What Conditions are Treated with SCS?
Failed back surgery syndrome (persistent leg or back pain after lumbar spine surgery)
Post-laminectomy syndrome
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
Chronic radiculopathy (nerve pain in the arms or legs) that has not responded to injections
Peripheral neuropathy (diabetic or other causes)
Chronic neck or back pain with a nerve component
The Trial-First Approach
Before committing to a permanent implant, Dr. Carrera's team performs a trial procedure. This involves placing temporary leads (thin wires) near the spinal cord through a small procedure. The leads are connected to an external device that you wear on your belt or waistband for about 6 days. During this time, you go about your daily life - walking, sitting, sleeping, doing your normal activities - with the stimulator running.
The trial lets you experience how the device feels and whether it provides meaningful pain relief before making a decision about a permanent implant. If the trial does not provide adequate relief, the leads are simply removed and there is no long-term commitment.
What Qualifies as a Successful Trial?
A trial is generally considered successful if you experience at least 50% pain reduction and meaningful improvement in your daily function. The team evaluates your pain levels, activity levels, sleep quality, and overall satisfaction during the trial period. Most insurance companies require documentation of a successful trial before approving the permanent implant.
How Should I Prepare for the Trial?
Blood thinners and certain medications may need to be stopped before the procedure. The team will provide specific instructions. Do not eat or drink for several hours before the trial. Arrange for someone to drive you home. You will need to keep the lead insertion site clean and dry during the trial period - no baths, swimming, or submerging the area.
What Happens During the Trial Procedure?
The trial is performed at the outpatient surgery center under IV sedation. You lie face down on a procedure table. Using fluoroscopy (live X-ray), thin leads are placed in the epidural space near the spinal cord. The leads are threaded out through the skin and connected to an external battery. The procedure typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour. You go home the same day.
What Happens During the 6-Day Trial Period?
You wear a small external device connected to the leads. The device can be adjusted to different settings to find the stimulation pattern that works best for your pain. The team checks in with you during the trial to review your response and make any adjustments. You track your pain levels, activity, and sleep throughout the trial.
What Happens If the Trial is Successful?
If the trial provides meaningful relief, the temporary leads are removed and a permanent implant is scheduled. The permanent procedure involves placing new leads and a small battery (about the size of a stopwatch) under the skin, usually in the upper buttock area. The permanent implant is also performed at the outpatient surgery center. The battery is rechargeable and lasts for years.
What If the Trial Does Not Work?
If the trial does not provide adequate relief, the leads are removed in a brief office visit. There is no permanent device, no ongoing commitment, and no lasting changes to your body. The trial-first approach exists specifically to protect patients from committing to a device that does not help them.
Does Insurance Cover SCS?
Yes. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover spinal cord stimulator trials and permanent implants when medical criteria are met. Criteria typically include chronic pain for at least three months, failure of conservative treatments, psychological clearance, and documentation that other treatments (injections, physical therapy, medications) have been tried. The team manages all prior authorization in-house.
Schedule an Evaluation
If chronic nerve pain is affecting your quality of life and other treatments have not provided enough relief, spinal cord stimulation may help. Dr. Carrera's team can evaluate whether you are a candidate and explain the trial process so you can make an informed decision.