Peripheral Nerve Stimulation

Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) is an approach frequently used to treat chronic pain. It involves a minimally-invasive procedure to place a small wire-like electrode next to a peripheral nerve (one of the nerves located beyond the brain or spinal cord). The electrode delivers rapid electrical pulses, felt like mild tingles, to help reduce pain.

What can I expect with peripheral nerve stimulation in Houston?

Dr. Seifert will place one or more devices through a needle next to the targeted nerves in a minimally-invasive procedure that can be performed in less than 30 minutes. After the device is placed, you can control the level of stimulation with a wearable antenna assembly that clips onto your clothing. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis with a local anesthetic.

Am I a candidate for this treatment?

You may be a candidate for peripheral nerve stimulation if you are suffering from chronic hip pain after total hip arthroplasty (hip replacement) or another type of surgery. PNS is a safe, effective, minimally-invasive treatment for postoperative neuropathic pain. Dr. Seifert uses StimWave stimulators to provide long-term relief of chronic pain in the hip or low back region.

What are the benefits of peripheral nerve stimulation?

One of the primary benefits of PNS is that it can be used to target nerves all over the body, not just in the spinal cord region. It is a safe, minimally-invasive procedure that does not require general anesthesia. Peripheral nerve stimulation can provide significant, long-term pain relief without drugs or the side effects of other treatment options.

What is the recovery like after peripheral nerve stimulation?

The StimWave PNS device can be placed through a needle-sized incision in an outpatient procedure without general anesthesia. Recovery time is quick after this minimally-invasive procedure. Dr. Seifert will give you specific aftercare instructions before you return home following the implantation of your peripheral nerve stimulation device.

Why choose Dr. Heidi Seifert for peripheral nerve stimulation?

Dr. Seifert is an interventional anesthesiologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic pain who offers minimally-invasive treatments in Houston, including peripheral nerve stimulation.
Our practice is compassionate and high tech, offering the latest in pain treatment techniques.
We treat our patients in the same way we would treat members of our own families.

FAQ

How does peripheral nerve stimulation work?

The doctor places a thin, flexible lead near the target nerve. You wear a small device that communicates with the lead wirelessly to send mild electrical pulses directly to the nerve. This interrupts the signals that are causing your pain. Treatment with PNS can result in a dramatic improvement in overall quality of life.

Can I have an MRI with a peripheral nerve stimulation device in place?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be safely performed with a StimWave peripheral nerve stimulation device in place under certain conditions. The wearable antenna assembly must not be present at any time in the magnetic resonance system room. Before undergoing an MRI, you must remove the external antenna assembly before you enter the room where the MRI will be performed.

How big is the StimWave device for peripheral nerve stimulation?

StimWave devices are the smallest, most compact micro-stimulators on the market, at only .04 cc. This device can fit through a standard gauge needle for placement without surgery.

How does the peripheral nerve stimulator get power?

The StimWave device implanted near the nerve has small metal electrodes near its tip. This device receives energy wirelessly from the external wearable antenna assembly. When power is applied to the electrodes, it creates an electrical field of energy, which aids in blocking pain signals.

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