Switching to paddle
 

Has anybody here used a percutaneous type SNS and then switched to a paddle type? How are they different? Did you have to repeat the trial before the permanent placement?

I haven't even scheduled the appointment with the neurosurgeon yet to be evaluated but am very nervous and some BTDT would help, I think.

Thanks!!!
Sandra

Hello Sandra!
 

Welcome to the 'Buzzing Buddies' :D

Actually YES - there have been many here who've had percutaneous leads at first, and as we all know they are much more likely to migrate. (I lived to tell the tale)
The paddle leads are placed via laminectomy, which is a bit more intense of a procedure and recovery, but well worth it. Paddle leads are there to stay (hopefully). It'll be imperative that you mind all the post-op rules or you could still be susceptible to migration.

Our wonderful Mark56 will give you the low-down on this!

I doubt you'd need to do a trial again (?) but that's a good question.
Others will be along soon with some great input and experiences.

I'm trying to recall what your introductory post said. Did you say your battery moved?......and then went dead. oh my.

It's great to have you with us!
Stick around, we're a fun bunch :cool:

Rae
:grouphug:

Yeah, it actually rotated 90 degrees so instead of being parallel to my skin, it's perpendicular and sticking OUT. I get it caught on chairs all the time!

I'm looking forward to learning lots!!! I've got an appt with the neurosurgeon next Friday.

Sandra

I had a paddle lead. It was great .. The coverage was excellent .. Then I got an infection. And now I have nothing,nor a, I ever likely to have anything surgically .. That was my last hope with surgery.

Hi Sandra!
I have two SCS's (cervical and thoracic), and both were initially percutaneous leads. The thoracic leads migrated within a couple of months, and the battery really irritated me where is was initially placed. Those leads were stimulating too much giving me muscle spasms, etc. I had the thoracic leads changed out for paddle leads and the battery relocated. Because I already had leads placed, they were able to use the same path when they implanted the paddle leads...a laminectomy was not necessary for me :)
I have not had any issues with the paddle leads, they have stayed put!! I would highly recommend them if given the choice.

Wishing you the best!
Nanc
:hug:

Hi Sandra
 

Yup, it comes to mind Tchr_012 had percutaneous leads originally and went to paddles, achieving so much better coverage.

As for me, I am a paddler.... not by trade, but by implant. I have paddles inserted at T9 and the coverage is fantastic from that location for lower lumbar and legs in my situation. A nuance to my situation was being able to program myself, and the benefit of just such an interface with the computer made all things come together for the good. I have been so thrilled, even to have fully withdrawn from all meds for the low body pain..... all of them.

I will happily answer any questions you have regarding this as your situation develops.

Thank you for coming along!
Mark56:):hug:

Ah HA!
 

Thank you for mentioning that, Nanc! I had it in my head that paddle leads always had to be performed via laminectomy. There are exceptions and that's good to know.
You've saved me from possibly mis-informing someone in the future! :Thanx:
I'm glad to hear your leads are good and secure!

Rae
:hug:

I originally had a T8 paddle then had it moved down to a T9 paddle when I had my revision due to a fall. I'm awaiting a cervical trial due to my hands being rendered useless. We haven't really discussed where it will go, but have discussed 2 leads this time. If what I've looked at regarding spinal nerves is correct, I'd guess C5-C7. Anyhow, I get great coverage. I know a friend f mine had the per cutaneous and hers migrated getting out of a bath. Crazy. I'm six days from my second 90 day mark and couldn't be happier! I hope everything goes well for you!

TK