scholarly journals Effectiveness of “Transgrade” Epidural Technique for Dorsal Root Ganglion Stimulation. A Retrospective, Single-Center, Case Series for Chronic Focal Neuropathic Pain

2019 ◽  
Vol 6 (22;6) ◽  
pp. 601-611
Author(s):  
Adnan Al-Kaisy

Background: The recent interest in targeting the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) has led to the development of new techniques of electrode placement. In this article, we describe a new “Transgrade” approach to the DRG, accessing the contralateral interlaminar space and steering the lead out the opposite foramen. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the Transgrade technique to the DRG in the management of focal neuropathic pain, predominately complex regional pain syndrome in terms of efficacy and safety. Study Design: A retrospective, observational review of all patients selected for DRG stimulation using the Transgrade technique to the DRG. Setting: Pain Management and Neuromodulation Centre, Guys and St. Thomas NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom. Methods: Data were taken from a hospital password-protected database. All patients were contacted by telephone for Numeric Rating Scale (NRS-11) score, Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC) score, and complications. A patient responder was defined as having a PGIC score of 6 or 7, and a 2-point reduction from baseline NRS-11. Results: A total of 39 patients (46% women) with a mean age of 46 years (± 2) underwent a trial of DRG stimulation that resulted in an implantation rate of 82% (32 of 39). The responder rates, according to NRS-11 and PGIC results, were 87% (28 of 32) at 6 weeks and 66% (21 of 32) at a mean of 18 months (± 1.8) follow-up. Pocket pain was the most common complication, occurring in 7 of 32 (22%) patients, and the lead migration rate was 3 out of 57 leads placed (5.2%). A burst protocol was the favored method of stimulation in the majority of patients, 25 of 32 (78%). Limitations: Retrospective nature of design, small sample size. Conclusions: The Transgrade technique of placing DRG leads offers an alternative method that is safe and effective. New methods of stimulation to the DRG offer more choice and potentially better efficacy for patients with chronic neuropathic pain.

2021 ◽  
pp. E407-E423

BACKGROUND: Evidence suggests that dorsal root ganglion stimulation (DRGS) is a more effective treatment for focal neuropathic pain (FNP) compared with tonic, paresthesia-based dorsal column spinal cord stimulation (SCS). However, new advancements in waveforms for dorsal column SCS have not been thoroughly studied or compared with DRGS for the treatment of FNP. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this review was to examine the evidence for these novel technologies; to highlight the lack of high-quality evidence for the use of neuromodulation to treat FNP syndromes other than complex regional pain syndrome I or II of the lower extremity; to emphasize the absence of comparison studies between DRGS, burst SCS, and high-frequency SCS; and to underscore that consideration of all neuromodulation systems is more patient-centric than a one-size-fits-all approach. STUDY DESIGN: This is a review article summarizing case reports, case series, retrospective studies, prospective studies, and review articles. SETTING: The University of Miami, Florida. METHODS: A literature search was conducted from February to March 2020 using the PubMed and EMBASE databases and keywords related to DRGS, burst SCS, HF10 (high-frequency of 10 kHz), and FNP syndromes. All English-based literature from 2010 reporting clinical data in human patients were included. RESULTS: Data for the treatment of FNP using burst SCS and HF10 SCS are limited (n = 11 for burst SCS and n = 11 for HF10 SCS). The majority of these studies were small, single-center, nonrandomized, noncontrolled, retrospective case series and case reports with short follow-up duration. To date, there are only 2 randomized controlled trials for burst and HF10 for the treatment of FNP. LIMITATIONS: No studies were available comparing DRGS to HF10 or burst for the treatment of FNP. Data for the treatment of FNP using HF10 and burst stimulation were limited to a small sample size reported in mostly case reports and case series. CONCLUSIONS: FNP is a complex disease, and familiarity with all available systems allows the greatest chance of success. KEY WORDS: Dorsal root ganglion, high frequency, burst, spinal cord stimulation, neuromodulation, focal neuropathic pain


Author(s):  
R Sahjpaul ◽  
V Varshney ◽  
J Osborn

Background: The dorsal root ganglion (DRG) has been established as an important structure in the development and modulation of chonic neuropathic pain and has demonstrated superiority over spinal cord stimulation in the management of challenging neuropathic pain conditions, including complex regional pain syndrome and chronic post-spine surgery neuropathic pain. DRG has only been available in Canada for patient application since January 2020. The St Pauls Hospital Neuromodulation Program was one of the first Canadian centers to offer this procedure. Methods: We reviewed our early experience with DRG therapy in 10 patients. Patient-reported outcome measures were collected pre-trial, post-trial, and post-device implantation, to determine the efficacy of DRG. We hypothesized that DRG stimulation would demonstrate a meaningful change in PROMIS-29 domains and at least 50% improvement in pain intensity at 8 wks. Results: All patients demonstrated a > 5 point change in T scores in PROMIS-29 domains suggesting a meaningful benefit. Patients also demonstrated a percentage pain improvement at 8 wks of 64 % based on a numerical rating scale. No major complications were observed. Conclusions: DRG stimulation is a safe and effective treatment option for neuropathic pain.


2020 ◽  
Vol 13 (1) ◽  
pp. 35-41
Author(s):  
Alfonso Papa ◽  
Elisabetta Saracco ◽  
Maria Teresa Di Dato ◽  
Pietro Buonavolontà ◽  
Anna Maria Salzano ◽  
...  

Objectives: The dorsal root ganglion (DRG) is involved in the transduction of pain signals to the central nervous system (CNS) and undergoes a number of physiopathological changes during chronic pain. The purpose of this data collection was to evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of DRG stimulation for the treatment of chronic pain and its impact on functional aspects. Materials and Methods: Forty-four subjects with non-reactive chronic neuropathic pain syndrome were implanted with DRG stimulation. Patients were evaluated at baseline as well as at 15, and 30 days, and at 3, 6, 12, 24, 36 and 48 months after medical intervention/surgery using the Visual Analogic Scale (VAS), which measures pain intensity, and the Oswestry Scale, for the estimation of disability (ODI). Results: After four years of simulation, VAS and ODI showed a statistically significant reduction throughout the follow-up period. The average pain relief obtained after 48 months of treatment was 74.1% ± 3.4. Conclusion: The results of this data collection demonstrate the feasibility of DRG stimulation, the correspondence between the clinical indications at the DRG implant and what is commonly found in the literature on this technique.(18,20) Patients defined as clinical responders to DRG stimulation and so implanted with definitive IPG showed a sustained and long term efficacy. Eight patients had previously been implanted with a traditional SCS without any clinically relevant efficacy; they were then explained for unsatisfactory results. Six of them (75%) were later implanted with DRG, with long-term effectiveness. Another advantage of this therapy is the absence of positional effects and lead migration. The adverse events proved to be independent of the anatomical level of insertion; moreover, this series of cases show a lower incidence of lead migration than reported in the literature. In summary, DRGs have been ignored for too long, probably due to the technical difficulty of reaching their deep, almost extra-spinal anatomical position.


2017 ◽  
Vol 3 (20;3) ◽  
pp. E411-E418 ◽  
Author(s):  
EungDon Kim

Background: Latent varicella zoster virus reactivates mainly in sensory ganglia such as the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) or trigeminal ganglion. The DRG contains many receptor channels and is an important region for pain signal transduction. Sustained abnormal electrical activity to the spinal cord via the DRG in acute herpes zoster can result in neuropathic conditions such as postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). Although the efficacy of pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) application to the DRG in various pain conditions has been previously reported, the application of PRF to the DRG in patients with herpes zoster has not yet been studied. Objectives: The aim of the present study was to compare the clinical effects of PRF to the DRG in patients with herpes zoster to those of PRF to the DRG in patients with PHN. Study Design: Retrospective comparative study. Setting: University hospital pain center in Korea. Methods: The medical records of 58 patients who underwent PRF to the DRG due to zoster related pain (herpes zoster or PHN) were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the timing of PRF after zoster onset: an early PRF group (within 90 days) and a PHN PRF group (more than 90 days). The efficacy of PRF was assessed by a numeric rating scale (NRS) and by recording patient medication doses before PRF and at one week, 4 weeks, 8 weeks, and 12 weeks after PRF. Results: Pain intensity was decreased after PRF in all participants. However, the degree of pain reduction was significantly higher in the early PRF group. Moreover, more patients discontinued their medication in the early PRF group, and the PRF success rate was also higher in the early PRF group. Limitations: The relatively small sample size from a single center, short duration of review of medical records, and the retrospective nature of the study. Conclusions: PRF to the DRG is a useful treatment for treatment-resistant cases of herpes zoster and PHN. Particularly in herpes zoster patients with intractable pain, application of PRF to the DRG should be considered for pain control and prevention of PHN. Key words: Pulsed radiofrequency, dorsal root ganglion, herpes zoster, postherpetic neuralgia


2014 ◽  
Vol 6;17 (6;12) ◽  
pp. 477-486 ◽  
Author(s):  
Simone Vigneri

Background: Lumbosacral radicular pain is a common clinical finding with a statistical prevalence ranging from 9.9% to 25% in the general population. Objective: To investigate the effectiveness of dorsal root ganglion pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) in patients with chronic lumbosacral radicular pain and neuropathic features. Study Design: Prospective case series clinical outcome study. Methods: We evaluated 34 patients with lumbosacral neuropathic pain who underwent PRF at the corresponding level of radicular symptoms distribution (ranging from L3 to S1). Each patient suffered a single leg-radiating pain with probable neuropathic features (assessed with clinical grading) lasting for > 6 months and unresponsive to previous treatments. A multifunctional PASHA-electrode® was introduced with trans-sacral access through a hollow needle, placed under fluoroscopic guidance into the lumbosacral epidural space and its active tip moved close to the dorsal root ganglion responsible of the clinical symptoms. After connecting the electrode to a generator, stimulation tests were performed and PRF was started and applied for 240 seconds at a frequency of 2Hz, amplitude of 45 V and a tip temperature between 40 – 42°C. If the pain involved more than a single nerve root, the electrode was placed at a different segment and the procedure repeated. Outcome measures included the pain intensity score on a 0 – 10 numeric rating scale (NRS) and the Italian Pain Questionnaire (QUID) at pre-treatment, one and 6 months post-treatment. P values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: In comparison with pre-treatment, a significant reduction in pain score was observed in mean NRS either at one and 6 months (P < 0.001). The QUID - Pain Rating Index rank displayed a parallel trend at the first (P < 0.001) and last follow-up (P = 0.01). Moreover, a direct correlation between the 2 scales occurred, showing a parallel score decreasing (P < 0.001). Eighteen (52.9%) and 17 (50%) of 34 patients showed pain reduction in NRS > 2 points and > 30%, at one and 6 months, respectively. Limitations: The non-controlled design of the study, the patients were heterogeneous, the small number of patients, and the duration of follow-up was limited to 6 months. Conclusions: PRF of dorsal root ganglion performed with a multifunctional electrode for > 240 seconds appears to be safe and might be more effective than the classic 120 seconds needlemediated approach. Therefore, it may be considered as a valuable tool for the treatment of lumbosacral radicular pain with neuropathic features. Key words: PRF, radicular pain, neuropathic pain, DRG, NRS, PRIr-T, multifunctional electrode


2021 ◽  
Vol 2 (2) ◽  
pp. 82-88
Author(s):  
Nugroho Wicaksono ◽  

Background: Lumbosacral radicular pain is the most common neuropathic pain. Pulsed Radio Frequency (PRF) is a method that believes to be safe and effective for reducing pain. Case: A 43-year-old woman experiences chronic right lumbar radiculopathy due to Herniated nucleus pulposus (HNP) L4-5. Anamnesis and physical examination show a sign of neuropathic pain. The MRI examination shows a paracentral disc protrusion L4-5 that compresses the transversing nerve L5. The conservative management did not produce a satisfying result indicated by the patient still experience pain with the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) 4-5. Patient unable to do activity properly. We perform pain management using the dorsal root ganglion L5 pulsed radiofrequency-fluoroscopy (PRF) and producing a positive outcome. Patients experience a decrease in pain intensity with NRS 1. The examination on one and two months post-intervention show an improvement. Patient able to do the daily activity with NRS 1-2. Conclusion: Pulsed radiofrequency dorsal root ganglion-fluoroscopy guide that relatively safe, minimum complications, and minimal side effects, making it the preferred treatment for chronic lumbar radicular pain.


2017 ◽  
Vol 3 (20;3) ◽  
pp. E459-E463 ◽  
Author(s):  
Eva Koetsier

Small fiber neuropathy is a disorder of the peripheral nerves with typical symptoms of burning, sharp, and shooting pain and sensory disturbances in the feet. Pain treatment depends principally on the underlying etiology with concurrent administration of antidepressants, anticonvulsants, opioids, and topical treatments like capsaicin and local anesthetics. However, treatments for pain relief in these patients frequently fail. We describe the first case of intractable painful small fiber neuropathy of the foot successfully treated with spinal cord stimulation of the left L5 dorsal root ganglion. A 74-year-old man presented at our clinic with severe intractable pain, dysesthesia, and allodynia of the left foot caused by idiopathic small fiber neuropathy, confirmed by skin biopsy. His pain score was 8 on a standard 0 – 10 numeric rating scale. As the pain was not satisfactorily controlled by conventional therapy, dorsal root ganglion stimulation was proposed to the patient and, after informed consent, a specifically designed percutaneous stimulation lead was placed over the left L5 dorsal root ganglion and connected to an external neurostimulator. After a positive trial of 10 days, a permanent neurostimulator was implanted. Twenty months post-implantation the patient continued to experience stimulation-induced paresthesia covering the entire pain area and reported a pain rating of 4. Results from the case report demonstrate that the dorsal root ganglion is a promising neural stimulation target to treat neuropathic pain due to intractable small fiber neuropathy. Prospective controlled studies are warranted to confirm the efficacy of this treatment as an option for the aforementioned condition. Key words: Dorsal root ganglion stimulation, small fiber neuropathy, neuropathic pain


2017 ◽  
Vol 1 (21;1) ◽  
pp. E161-E167 ◽  
Author(s):  
Amélie Levesque

Background: Chronic pelvic, perineal and gluteal neuralgia is often experienced in a similar way to neuropathic pain, in the territories of four nerves: ilio-inguinal, pudendal, inferior cluneal and posterior gluteal nerves. These pains are often refractory to medical treatment based on the use of systemic molecules with disabling adverse effects and surgical procedure may be necessary. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of treatment with a high-concentration capsaicin patch in these indications. Study Design: This study was prospective, nonrandomized, and observational. Setting: Federative Center of Pelvi-Perineology in the University Hospital of Nantes, France. Methods: Sixty patients with pelvic neuralgia were treated with high-concentration capsaicin patch. The primary endpoint was Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC) and secondary endpoints included pain intensity on a Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), maximum sitting duration at the end of the day, Medication Consumption Score (MQS), and patient global improvement (from -100% to + 100%). Results: Twenty four percent of the 60 patients included in the study declared that they felt “very much improved” or “much improved” (PGIC = 1 or 2) and these patients reported an average 58% improvement and a 3.4-point reduction on the NRS. Among the “good responder” patients, patients with coccygodynia appear to obtain the best results, as 37% of these patients declared that they were much improved with an average 63% improvement No serious adverse effects were observed and treatment was well tolerated. Limitation: This study is limited by its relatively small sample size and non-randomized study. Conclusion: These results suggest the value of high-concentration capsaicin 8% patch in the treatment strategy for patients with chronic pelvic, perineal and gluteal neuralgia. This treatment would be particularly indicated in the management of coccygodynia. Key words: Pelvic pain, neuropathic pain, pudendal nerve, ilio-inguinal nerve, inferior cluneal nerve, posterior gluteal nerve, capsaicin, capsaicin patch, coccygodynia


Author(s):  
Xiaohua Fan ◽  
Chuanwei Wang ◽  
Junting Han ◽  
Xinli Ding ◽  
Shaocan Tang ◽  
...  

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document