Accurate Neural Activation Improves Long Term Spinal Cord

Dr. Peter Staats emphasizes the importance of accurate neural activation for improved long-term clinical outcomes in spinal cord stimulation (SCS). He discusses the variability observed in clinical outcomes from the 1970s to 2010. He highlights Jan Holsheimer’s identification of variability in cord activation and points out the challenge of applying fixed electrical stimulation to the spinal cord. He discusses the newly approved SCS technology, EVOKE ECAP guided programming, and presents data showing variability in response among open-loop responders and non-responders, while closed-loop responders and non-responders demonstrate less variability. Maintaining a consistent therapeutic level in the spinal cord is emphasized, underscoring the importance of understanding, and optimizing the dosage.