Multicolumn spinal cord stimulation lead implantation using an optic transligamentar minimally invasive technique.

Abstract

A new generation of neurostimulation surgical leads is used to increase the success of spinal cord stimulation in difficult-to-treat indications such as failed back surgery syndrome. Minimal access spinal technologies (MASTs) have previously been used for surgical lead implantation. However, only a unilateral approach was possible, causing difficulties for median lead placement, and not always preventing laminectomy. A recent MAST technique was used to implant spinal cord stimulation leads without these limitations. To describe the MAST technique used in a pilot study. Twenty-four consecutive patients were implanted with a multicolumn surgical lead for refractory chronic back and leg pain by using the optic transligamentar MAST technique. The MAST technique allowed median lead placement, facilitated visualization of the spine, and permitted transligamentar insertion that minimized scarring and muscle damage. No technique-related adverse events or lead revisions were reported. Use of a MAST approach could be useful in safe implantation of multicolumn surgical leads in difficult-to-treat, refractory lower back pain conditions such as failed back surgery syndrome.