Neuroaugmentation in the treatment of complex regional pain syndrome of the upper extremity.

The authors report their results on 36 patients with advanced stages of complex regional pain syndrome. They were treated with either spinal cord stimulation, or peripheral nerve stimulation, and in some cases with both modalities. Thirty six months after implantation the reported pain measured on visual analogue scales was an average of 53% better, this change was statistically significant. Analgesic consumption decreased by about 50% or was reportedly more effective. The authors conclude that in late stages of complex regional pain syndrome, neuroaugmentation is a reasonable option when alternative therapies have failed.