Even if the spinal cord stimulation is an easy procedure, there are some things that you should be aware of, before you are going for the procedure. The recovery time might be not long, and the operation isn’t really a dangerous operation, but there are still some things that you should know, before making the final decisions.
Risks of the operation
Because the spinal cord stimulation procedure is done in your spinal cord, there are always some risks. It doesn’t matter if the procedure is small or if you are undergoing a big operation, there will always be some risks.
The risks that you need to be aware of, when you’re going for the spinal cord stimulation procedure are that you might struggle with infection, bleeding and headaches. The more serious risks include an allergic reaction, spinal fluid leakage and paralyses. But, this isn’t risks that are common with this type of procedure.
The stimulator might stop working
Just like any device, the stimulator might just stop working after a while. This will mean that your pain will be back, and you might need to get the stimulator replaced.
Even, if this isn’t a difficult procedure, no one really wants to get the procedure done, twice. But, there is always the risk of the stimulator stop working and that needs to be replaced with a new one.
The lead could move
This is also something that isn’t going to happen often, and might not even happen to you. But, the lead could move in your spinal cord and then you will need emergency surgery to get the lead back into place.
The moving lead can cause some serious trouble, if you don’t fix it a soon as possible. However, if you are getting this procedure done by a qualified and experienced doctor, the lead will not really be able to move around.
Even, if there are so many benefits of getting the spinal cord stimulation procedure done, there are some risks that you need to be aware of. It is always better to ensure that you are aware of all the facts as well as the cons and risks, before you make any final decision on any operation or procedure. Then, you will know that you are making the right decision, and that you will know what to do when something goes wrong with the procedure, even after a couple of years.
