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

Background: 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.

Objective: To describe the MAST technique used in a pilot study.

Methods: 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.

Results: 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.

Conclusion: 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.