Percutaneous cordotomy.

The essentials for performing a safe and satisfactory percutaneous cordotomy are: (1) a suitable type of pain in a patient without respiratory hazard, (2) a very fine electrode, (3) contrast visualization of the dentate ligament, (4) electrical stimulation before lesion making, (5) slow increase in strength of the lesion-making current, (6) careful motor as well as sensory testing between lesions, (7) a willingness to desist in the face of difficulties, and (8) an awareness of the possibility of respiratory problems in the postoperative period.