Spinal Cord Stimulator in Las Vegas
Spinal cord stimulation uses a small implanted device to send mild electrical pulses to the spinal cord, changing how pain signals reach the brain. It is an option for chronic back, leg or nerve pain that has not improved with other treatments, including pain that continues after back surgery. A short trial comes first, so you can see how well it works before a permanent implant.
Who Spinal Cord Stimulation Helps
- Chronic back or leg pain after back surgery
- Nerve pain, including diabetic nerve pain
- Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
- Chronic pain that has not improved with injections, medication or therapy
Step 1: The Trial
During a trial, thin temporary leads are placed near the spinal cord through a needle and connected to an external device. You wear it at home for about a week and track how much your pain and activity improve. Patients whose pain drops significantly are candidates for a permanent system.
Step 2: The Permanent Implant
The permanent device is placed in a short outpatient procedure at a surgery center. Afterward, you control the stimulation with a small remote and can adjust it throughout the day. Many modern systems allow full-body MRI under specific conditions.
Recovery and Results
Most patients return to light activity within days and avoid heavy lifting or twisting for several weeks while the leads settle. Many people use less pain medication and are able to walk, sleep and work more comfortably.
Insurance, Medicare and Personal Injury Coverage
Epion accepts most major insurance plans, Medicare, workers' compensation and personal injury liens. Some plans require prior authorization, and our team handles verification before your procedure. See the insurance plans we accept, or if you were hurt in an accident, learn how lien treatment works.
Common Questions
How does a spinal cord stimulator trial work?
Temporary leads are placed near the spinal cord and connected to an outside device that you wear for about a week. If your pain improves significantly, you can move forward with a permanent implant.
Is a spinal cord stimulator permanent?
It is designed for long-term use, but it can be adjusted, turned off or removed if needed.
Can I have an MRI with a spinal cord stimulator?
Many newer systems are approved for MRI under specific conditions. Dr. Gallagher will review MRI compatibility when choosing your device.
Does insurance cover spinal cord stimulation?
Medicare and many insurance plans cover spinal cord stimulation after a successful trial, and some require a psychological evaluation first. Our team handles the authorization process.
Talk With Dr. Gallagher
Dr. Gallagher is board certified in Pain Medicine and personally sees every patient at every visit. We accept most insurance plans, Medicare, workers' comp and personal injury liens.