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What Types of Injuries Can Occur in a Spinal Cord Stimulator?

Spinal cord stimulators (SCS) offer promising relief to individuals suffering from chronic pain by transmitting electrical impulses to the spinal cord to reduce the sensation of pain. However, like any medical device, SCS implants can sometimes lead to injuries and complications.

Our Lexington, KY, injury lawyers understand the implications of these injuries and can help those seeking legal assistance understand their options. Here are some of the various types of injuries that spinal cord stimulators can cause.

Potential Injuries Associated with Spinal Cord Stimulators

Many types of injuries may arise from spinal cord stimulator implants. While these devices can help relieve pain associated with spinal cord injuries, back issues, and arachnoiditis, they are known to cause some harm. Some common injuries include:

Nerve Damage

One of the most significant risks associated with spinal cord stimulators is nerve damage. During implantation, there’s a risk of direct injury to the spinal cord or surrounding nerves. This can lead to persistent pain, loss of sensation, or even paralysis in severe cases. Nerve damage might manifest as tingling, numbness, or weakness, limiting mobility and overall quality of life.

Infections

Since the spinal cord stimulator is implanted within the body, there is always a risk of infection. Infections may develop at the surgical site or around the device itself. In severe cases, these infections can disseminate to other body parts, resulting in systemic infections that can be life-threatening if not promptly treated. Symptoms of infection include redness, swelling, fever, and increased pain at the implant site.

Lead Migration

Lead migration occurs when the leads or electrodes of the device move from their intended position. This displacement can cause the device to become less effective or lead to unwanted sensations, such as pain or shocks in areas that were not affected initially. Lead migration may require corrective surgery to reposition the electrodes, creating additional risks and discomfort for the patient.

Device Malfunction

As an electronic device, a spinal cord stimulator is prone to malfunction. Device failure can manifest as inconsistent pain relief, sudden shocks, or even device malfunctions. This can greatly affect the patient’s quality of life, as they may be left without the intended pain relief and potentially experience discomfort from the device itself.

Dural Puncture/Spinal Fluid Leaks

The implantation process can sometimes lead to spinal fluid leaks, especially if there’s an error during surgery. Spinal fluid leaks are serious and can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, and even vision disturbances. These leaks may resolve independently in some cases, but others may require further surgical intervention.

The Far-Reaching Consequences of These Injuries

The Food and Drug Administration has identified spinal cord stimulators as the third most frequently flagged medical device, with many complaints and over 80,000 reported injuries. Injuries can have life-altering consequences. Physical pain and discomfort are just the beginning, as patients may experience emotional distress, financial burdens from medical bills, and time lost from work or personal responsibilities.

Some SCS injuries may even lead to long-term or lifelong disability. Patients may be entitled to compensation if an injury is due to device malfunction, improper implantation, or inadequate post-operative care.

Our Lexington Spinal Cord Injury Lawyers Can Help

Medical device manufacturers and healthcare providers have a duty to ensure that devices are safe and implanted correctly. When this duty is breached, affected individuals have a right to seek legal recourse. However, managing the physical and emotional toll of a spinal cord injury, as well as the legal process, can be overwhelming.

A Lexington spinal cord injury attorney can assist by investigating the circumstances of the injury, building a compelling case, and pursuing compensation. Contact our firm today for a free consultation on the best course of action.