Peripheral nerve/field stimulation for neuropathic pain

Abstract

Peripheral nerve stimulation and peripheral nerve field stimulation are emerging as a viable neuromodulatory therapy in the treatment of refractory pain. Although the technology of percutaneous stimulation has been available for decades, recent advancements have broadened the number of indications. Success of treatment revolves around identifying the correct patient population, and the selection and placement of the appropriate electrodes and implantable pulse generators. Most results to date have come from case reports and retrospective studies. However, given the promising outcomes in reducing otherwise medically refractory pain, future randomized controlled studies are needed to assess this emerging technology.

Keywords: Chronic pain; Field stimulation; Headache; Nerve stimulation; Neuropathic pain; Occipital neuralgia; Peripheral neuromodulation; Post-herpetic neuralgia.