Retrospective analysis of 22 patients with chronic pain treated by peripheral nerve stimulation.

Twenty-two patients with chronic pain, chiefly from posttraumatic neuropathy, were treated by implanted peripheral nerve stimulators located proximal to the pain. Thirteen of these (62%) have experienced pain control for an average of 25 months. The experience of the surgeon is thought to be a major factor contributing to the successful results. There are theoretical and practical advantages to electrical stimulation and proximal portions of the peripheral nervous system. The surgical technique for implantation is described and the necessity for reoperation in some patients is explained.