Peripheral nerve field stimulation: is age an indicator of outcome?

Objective.  This study aims to assess peripheral nerve field stimulation as a treatment option for chronic pain and test for indicators of outcome. Materials and Methods.  We reviewed all patients permanently implanted with peripheral nerve field stimulators over the past 24 months. A questionnaire was used to assess outcomes. Results.  Twenty-seven questionnaires were sent out and 23/27 responded. A significant average decrease of 4.02 visual analog scale points was observed. The average pain decrease for the low back was 3.77 points and 5.9 for occipital implants. An age effect was detected; younger patients (<60 years) reported an average pain relief of 4.79 points while older patients (>61 years) reported an average pain relief decrement of only 2.83 points. Most patients reported decreases in analgesic use after treatment. Pain relief was significantly and highly correlated with reduced analgesic intake and patient satisfaction. Conclusion.  Peripheral nerve field stimulation is a safe, reversible, and effective treatment option for patients with chronic pain, particularly those under 60 years.