Yes! The first step toward getting an SCS system is to test drive SCS therapy with a temporary trial system. This lets you try out SCS and decide if it’s right for you.
Is SCS therapy right for me?
The SCS trial starts with an outpatient procedure at your pain management specialist’s office or surgery center. Over the next few days, you’ll use the temporary SCS system to find out if this type of treatment works to reduce your pain. If it does, you and your pain management specialist can discuss moving forward with getting a Boston Scientific SCS System implanted.
How does the SCS trial system work?
Boston Scientific Clinical Specialist Kira Trexler, RN, explains how SCS therapy works and explains the process of trying out an SCS system.
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The patient quotes in this material describe real personal experiences. Individual results may vary. Patients can experience different levels of pain management and different changes in their activities and use of medications. Consult with your physician to determine if you are a candidate for this procedure and what you may gain from the therapy.
What can I expect from my SCS trial?
- Lead placement: First, your doctor will place temporary flexible wire leads in your back.
- Lead connection: The leads are connected to an External Trial Stimulator (ETS) , which is usually worn on your waist. Your ETS is programmed to personalize your therapy.
- Controller: Your Clinical Specialist will show you how to make adjustments with your mySCS™ GO Therapy Controller*.
- Trial period: You’ll go home with your SCS trial system to try it out over the next three to seven days. Download the mySCS™ App to get the most out of your trial.
- Trial results: During and after your trial, you and your doctor will decide if SCS therapy is effective for you. You’ll discuss whether to move forward with an implanted system.
How is the temporary SCS trial system different from the long-term implant?
The temporary trial system has an external stimulator called an ETS. The long-term implant is much smaller than the ETS and placed under your skin.
Ready to move forward with a full implant? You’ll undergo another procedure with a much smaller, implantable stimulator.
How do I know if my SCS trial is successful?
Talk to your doctor about what success looks like for you. Generally, SCS is considered effective if:
- Your pain is reduced by 50% or more
- You’re able to resume your daily activities
- You need less pain medication
- Your sleep and relaxation improve
Will SCS allow me to be free of pain medications?
Some people find that SCS therapy works well enough that they no longer need pain medications. For others, successful therapy means using less pain medication.
Always check with your doctor before changing your medication dosage.
Get the most out of your SCS trial with the mySCSTM App
While you’re testing SCS, the mySCS App will help you:
- Track your daily pain and activity levels
- Connect with your Boston Scientific Care Team
- Learn more about what to expect at each step along the way
At the end of your trial, you can review your progress with your pain management specialist and Boston Scientific Care Team to help decide if SCS is right for you.
Learn more about the mySCS App or download the app on your iOS or Android mobile device.
Frequently asked questions
If your doctor recommends SCS, you can try it out first with a temporary system. The trial usually lasts three to seven days, though it may be shorter or longer. During and after the trial, you and your doctor can decide if SCS therapy helps manage your pain. If it does, you can move forward with the implanted system. If it doesn’t, you simply have the trial system removed. Remember, the trial will help you know firsthand if SCS is right for you before you make any commitment.
The trial starts with an outpatient procedure at the doctor’s office or surgery center. This procedure takes one or two hours. Over the next three to seven days, you’ll see if the SCS system helps you manage your pain.
Yes. Unlike the long-term implant, the temporary system has external components. Because of this, there are some precautions you’ll need to take. Your doctor will go over all of these with you, but keep in mind:
- Keep it dry. You’ll need to keep the SCS dry — this means no baths, showers, or swimming during your SCS trial. Prepare for this by showering the morning of your procedure.
- No bending, lifting, or twisting. Avoid activities and positions that could pull your leads out of place. No bending, lifting, or twisting.
- Track your progress. Consider keeping a journal or using the mySCS™ App to keep track of your progress during your trial. Write down any new things you’re able to do, and how you’re sleeping. Go about your daily activities and notice how you’re feeling. Keep track of things you may be able to do that you weren’t able to do without the SCS system.
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Have you been suffering from pain for more than 6 months?
References
*For a list of compatible devices, visit www.myscsjourney.com/mySCSGO