Comparative outcomes of spinal cord stimulation for neuropathic pain: peripheral nerve versus spinal cord lesions
Issued Date
2026-12-01
Resource Type
ISSN
03445607
eISSN
14372320
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-105027013913
Pubmed ID
41518451
Journal Title
Neurosurgical Review
Volume
49
Issue
1
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Neurosurgical Review Vol.49 No.1 (2026)
Suggested Citation
Fitzrol D.N., Sitthinamsuwan B., Jirachaipitak S., Euasobhon P., Zinboonyahgoon N., Nunta-aree S. Comparative outcomes of spinal cord stimulation for neuropathic pain: peripheral nerve versus spinal cord lesions. Neurosurgical Review Vol.49 No.1 (2026). doi:10.1007/s10143-025-03950-y Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/114769
Title
Comparative outcomes of spinal cord stimulation for neuropathic pain: peripheral nerve versus spinal cord lesions
Author's Affiliation
Corresponding Author(s)
Other Contributor(s)
Abstract
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is commonly used to treat refractory neuropathic pain. However, no prior study has compared SCS outcomes between neuropathic pain of peripheral nerve origin and neuropathic pain of spinal cord origin. This study aimed to compare SCS outcomes between these two patient groups. Twenty-seven patients with refractory neuropathic pain underwent SCS. Of these, 14 had peripheral nerve lesions, whereas 13 had spinal cord lesions. Demographic data, numeric pain rating scores, and SCS outcomes were collected. These parameters were then compared between the two groups. Patients with neuropathic pain of peripheral nerve origin had more localized pain distribution (p = 0.012, OR = 8.33, 95% CI = 1.47‒47.23) than those with spinal cord origin. They also had a higher rate of successful trial stimulation (p = 0.018, OR = 9.60, 95% CI = 1.48‒62.16) and better long-term pain relief (p = 0.006). The poorest outcomes were observed in those with traumatic spinal cord injury. No complications occurred in this series. Patients harboring neuropathic pain of peripheral nerve origin demonstrated a higher success rate of trial stimulation and superior long-term outcomes following SCS compared with patients who had spinal cord lesions. These findings may aid clinicians in forecasting SCS outcomes and selecting appropriate candidates for the procedure.