Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) Stimulation:
Dorsal Root Ganglion stimulation is a highly specialized type of neurostimulation that manages intractable pain originating from specific nerve roots in the thoracic and lumbar spine.
Common pain areas include:
- Pelvis
- Groin
- Hip
- Knee
- Ankle
- Foot
Pain typically has the following characteristics:
- Chronic (> 6 months in duration)
- Ipsilateral (one side of the body)
- Focal (one spot on the body)
The system consists of stimulator leads with electrical contacts attached to them in addition to a pulse generator battery.
Proclaim DRG pulse generator batteries typically last 6.5 years at normal settings without having to charge the device.
8 out of 10 people experience significant pain relief after recovery from implantation.
The first step of DRG therapy is to perform a trial. During the DRG neurostimulation trial electrodes are placed and an external pulse generator battery is taped to your flank. During this time, you will work with a representative from Abbott Labs to fine tune the stimulation to the exact area of pain.
Should you have > 50% relief in your overall pain in addition to improvement in your quality of life and completing activities at home a permanent device will be implanted.
Typical recovery from placement of a permanent device is 4-6 weeks.
To find out if this is a viable option to treat your pain, please contact an Austin pain management physician to request an appointment.