Spinal cord stimulation as a treatment for refractory neuropathic pain in tethered cord syndrome: a case report

Abstract

Abstract Introduction The spinal cord is a target for many neurosurgical procedures used to treat chronic severe pain. Neuromodulation and neuroablation are surgical techniques based on well-known specific anatomical structures. However, anatomical and electrophysical changes related to the tethered spinal cord make it more difficult to use these procedures. Case presentation We report the case of a 37-year-old Caucasian woman who had several surgical interventions for tethered cord syndrome. These interventions resulted in severe neuropathic pain in her lower back and right leg. This pain was treated by spinal cord stimulation using intra-operative sensory mapping, which allowed the cord's optimal placement in a more caudal position. Conclusion The low-voltage and more caudally placed electrodes are specific features of this treatment of tethered cord syndrome.