St. Jude Medical Provides a Method to Reduce or Eliminate Pain Without Medication
By Caroff, Maria; Exceptional Parent Magazine, Vol. 39, No. 6-7, pp. 113-115Publication Date: June/July 2009
Article describes an implantable neurostimulator for reducing or eliminating pain resulting from back and leg injuries. About the size of a silver dollar, the Eon Mini spinal cord stimulation system developed by St. Jude Medical is the smallest neurostimulator available and features a portable, rechargeable battery with a 10 year life approved by the Food and Drug Administration. The Eon Mini system includes (1) a surgically implanted neurostimulator that is likened to a pacemaker for pain; (2) leads, one or more thin wires with several electrodes that carry mild electrical impulses from the neurostimulator to specific segments of the spinal cord; (3) a remote control device that enables the user to turn the system on and off and adjust stimulation within parameters set by a physician; and (4) a programmer that allows the doctor or clinician to adjust and fine tune the stimulation programs. A potential user first receives a one to two week trial run with the Eon Mini temporarily attached to the skin to assess the effectiveness of the device. The article includes the case histories of three Army veterans who have benefitted from implantation with the neurostimulator following injury.
Published by: EP Global Communications (Website:http://www.eparent.com)
