Spontaneous resolution of nausea induced by spinal cord stimulation for failed back surgery syndrome

Journal Article (Journal Article)

Introduction: Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is used for treatment of pain arising from a variety of pathologies. Reported sideeffects related to SCS are most commonly technical complications including malfunction, lead migration, or severance. Up to date, only a few cases of gastrointestinal side-effects have been reported. Materials and Methods: A 54-year-old man with a 20-year history of low back pain developed persistent and refractory nausea following spinal cord stimulator implantation. Results: The nausea resolved spontaneously within eight weeks allowing continued use of the spinal cord stimulator. Conclusions: In this case report, we described the uncommon side-effect of nausea because of SCS that resolved over time allowing continued neurostimulation therapy in a patient with arachnoiditis and failed lumbar back surgery syndrome. We encourage other providers to report similar cases to help elucidate the mechanism of these seemingly underreported side-effects to allow continuation of the therapeutic effects of SCS. © 2010 International Neuromodulation Society.

Full Text

Duke Authors

Cited Authors

  • Vorenkamp, KE; Baker, NE

Published Date

  • October 1, 2010

Published In

Volume / Issue

  • 13 / 4

Start / End Page

  • 292 - 295

Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)

  • 1525-1403

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

  • 1094-7159

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1111/j.1525-1403.2010.00291.x

Citation Source

  • Scopus