Abstract
Introduction
The aim of this case series was to assess the safety and effectiveness of peripheral
nerve stimulation (PNS) of the brachial plexus performed using a low invasive percutaneous
approach with ultrasound guide.
Materials and Methods
Patients affected by neuropathic pain with a documented brachial plexus partial avulsion
were included in this observational study. A totally implantable PNS system specifically
designed for peripheral placement (Neurimpulse, Padua, Italy) was implanted and followed
for 18 months, recording the level of pain (Numeric Rating Scale [NRS]), therapy satisfaction
(Patient Global Impression of Improvement), quality of life (Short Form Health Survey
questionnaire), and change in drug consumption and work status. Descriptive statistic
(mean and SD) was used to compare pre- and postimplantation differences.
Results
A total of 18 patients were included in the observational study; 16 of them proceeded
with the permanent implantation. System infection (N = 1) and lead migrations (N = 2) were recorded during a follow-up mean of 14.8 ± 5.4 months. The average NRS
reduction at 18 months was 41%. Average quality-of-life physical and mental indexes
increased by 14% and 32%, respectively. Drug intake was stopped in 22% and reduced
in 56% of the patients.
Conclusions
PNS systems of the brachial plexus implanted with percutaneous approach appear to
be safe and effective in a follow-up period of 18 months. Longer and larger studies
are needed to confirm and extend these outcomes.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: November 19, 2022
Accepted:
October 4,
2022
Received in revised form:
September 12,
2022
Received:
April 7,
2022
Footnotes
Source(s) of financial support: The authors reported no funding sources.
Conflict of Interest: The authors reported no conflict of interest.
Identification
Copyright
Published by Elsevier Inc. on behalf of the International Neuromodulation Society.
