If, during your consultation, a spinal cord stimulator is determine to be the best option for you, a procedure will be scheduled for a trial implantation. The therapy has been in existence for over 50 years, although the equipment and technology continues to be refined and improved. Stimulator implantation is done through a minimally invasive procedure and is reversible. The use of this therapy has been scientifically shown to reduce certain types of pain in many patients. This system delivers small amounts of electricity directly to the pain neurons within the spine (similar to how a pace maker works on the heart). Spinal cord stimulation is a procedure in which small wires are inserted into the spinal canal and connected to a battery. Patients with histories of bleeding problems, blood thinning medicines (anti-coagulants), problems with infections, or other serious health problems may warrant further testing and advice from sub-specialty experts.Ī common form of neuromodulation is Spinal Cord Stimulation. Each patient's individual health history is also evaluated.Do not attempt to complete this ahead of your appointment. Psychological evaluation will often be ordered by the pain provider and is required by most insurance companies.Often times, advanced imaging of the spine (MRI or CT scan) is needed to be sure that this it is safe to place the neuromodulation equipment.Patients have usually had a complete work-up for the underlying cause of their pain by an appropriate specialist and less invasive pain relieving have been trialed.Testing Before Neuromodulation Procedures Billing and Insurance at Mayo ClinicĬoverage is specific to your individual plan and carrier. You are encouraged to check with your insurance company to verify that Mayo Clinic is within your network and for any prior authorization needs. Neuromodulation procedures are often covered by insurance policies. The process begins with an appointment in the pain medicine clinic with a neuromodulation expert to evaluate if neuromodulation could be an option for your pain condition and to consider which therapy is most appropriate for your individual needs.Įxternal referring providers may use the online referral process. Your current care team can help to facilitate this referral. Patients are generally referred to Pain Medicine to discuss neuromodulation after initial measures of pain control have failed. Having access to these different technologies and a variety of vendors allows us to select a therapy that suites your individual needs and gives you the best chance for pain relief and restoration of function. There are various technology options offered at Mayo Clinic which include: This term often refers to technological devices that are surgically implanted in the body to help with chronic pain problems. Neuromodulation is the use of medication or technology to alter pain signaling in the body with the goal of reducing pain, improving function and positively impacting your overall quality of life. Photo courtesy of Medtronic What is Neuromodulation?
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