Have you been experiencing chronic pain for six months or more, despite trying traditional neurostimulation, surgery, pain medications, nerve blocks, or other pain management therapies? Ramos Center is pleased to announce that we will soon be offering Dorsal Root Ganglion Spinal Cord Stimulation, a new and innovative procedure!
So what exactly is Dorsal Root Ganglion Spinal Cord Stimulation (DRG)? To understand this procedure, it’s important to have a basic understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the spine. The Dorsal Root Ganglia are located just off the spinal cord within the epidural space, and they contain a cluster of sensory nerve cells. Each part of the body has a corresponding nerve root that is connected to the spinal cord and controls communication to and from the brain. The DRG connects the nerve roots to the spinal cord, allowing direct access to the messages being sent back and forth. By applying electrical stimulation specifically to the DRG, the stimulation can interrupt and confuse pain signals before they reach the brain.
During the DRG Stimulation Procedure, which is performed on an outpatient basis at the Ambulatory Surgery Center, patients are given a light dose of anesthesia (twilight anesthesia) to help them remain calm and comfortable. The procedure is performed in two stages, each taking approximately an hour and a half. During the first stage, the patient is fitted with a trial implant for one week. If the trial is successful, the patient will be fitted with a permanent implant during the second stage.
According to several studies, patients reported feeling pain relief after undergoing the DRG Stimulation Procedure, and many were able to wean themselves off of oral medication. Additionally, at 12 months post-op, many patients reported improved mood scores and an increased ability to perform daily activities. DRG Stimulation provides targeted pain relief, with 81% of patients reporting a reduction in pain and an improved quality of life.
If you’re tired of living with chronic pain, call us today to see if Dorsal Root Ganglion Spinal Cord Stimulation is right for you! Dr. Grace and the rest of the Ramos team are excited to start performing this innovative procedure. To set up an appointment, give us a call or fill out our contact form.