Spinal cord stimulation is a form of chronic pain therapy that has been widely used for many painful conditions. It has been shown to be effective for the treatment of angina since the late 1980's.

It is done as an outpatient procedure and involves the placement of an electrode within the spinal canal. This electrode then delivers a weak electrical current to the spinal cord. Spinal cord stimulation activates the area in the spinal cord responsible for transmitting pain. Instead of feeling pain, the patient experiences a tingling sensation.

The procedure is reversible, which means even though it is surgically implanted, the device can always be removed by your doctor.

In addition to experiencing pain relief, patients also report significantly:

Fewer angina episodes.

Fewer nitroglycerine tablets required.

Increased exercise capacity.

Fewer changes on electrocardiogram.

Increased blood supply to the heart.

More efficient metabolism in the heart during exercise.

Increased participation in social activities.

Fewer hospital admissions for chest pain.

The clinical results from such anginal pain relief are promising, and can allow you to both increase physical activity and improve the quality of your life.

References

Cameron T. Safety and efficacy of spinal cord stimulation for the treatment of chronic pain: a 20-year literature review. J Neurosurg (Spine 3) 2004;100:254-67.

Kutlay M, Hsu FP, Burchiel KJ. Spinal cord stimulation for severe angina pectoris. In Surgical Management of Pain. KJ Burchiel, Ed. Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., New York, 2003.