Needle infiltration assisted explantation technique for peripheral nerve stimulator leads

Introduction: Peripheral nerve stimulation is a neuromodulation modality that is increasing used to treat chronic pain. The permanent peripheral nerve stimulator systems, while easy to place are designed to stay in place and scar at the implantation site. There is a paucity of literature on explantation techniques for peripheral nerve stimulators.

Methods: In this report describe a needle infiltration assisted technique for lead explantation. This novel technique is minimally invasive, cost effective and utilizes a combination of fluoroscopy and ultrasound imaging. We describe the successful use of this technique in 3 cases in our practice without any adverse events.

Conclusion: There are many situations which might require a permanent peripheral nerve stimulator to be explanted such as infection, lead erosion, patient request or need for patient to undergo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In these scenarios, we propose a novel needle infiltration assisted technique of explantation that is safe, effective and easy to replicate.