Evaluation of a dual quadripolar surgically implanted spinal cord stimulation lead for failed back surgery patients with chronic low back and leg pain.

Objectives.  Recent publications on dual program spinal cord stimulation (SCS) system demonstrate more flexible electrode programming, which helps to steer paresthesias towards all of the affected areas including the low back area. Materials and Methods.  The following data were retrospectively sought from 20 nonrandomized failed back surgery patients at two centers treated by a dual quadripolar surgically implanted SCS lead: pain and paresthesia, VAS ratings, medication use, sleep patterns, daily activities, hardware problems, and willingness to repeat the procedure. The data were analyzed by the Wilcoxon signed rank test (p value < 0.05). Results.  The average paresthesia coverage was 76%. After SCS implantation, analgesic use was decreased in 59% of the patients, sleeping time augmented, and quality of sleep improved. The number of patients taking benzodiazepines decreased. Sixty percent reported increased participation in social activities. Conclusions.  This dual program surgical SCS technique is simple, respects patients' autonomy, and provides adequate analgesia with an increase in quality of life.