Maldonado–Naranjo AL et al. – In this retrospective study, the authors reviewed outcomes in all patients following removal of spinal cord stimulation (SCS) paddle electrodes. Although reversibility of the procedure is one of the benefits of SCS procedure, some risk was involved with removal; however, overall risk of minor and major complications was low. Prophylactic removal is not recommended; however, surgeons and pain specialists should be familiar with these complications and their management when removal is required.

Methods

• Retrospective review of outcomes in patients who underwent SCS paddle electrode removal at Cleveland Clinic (2009–2016).

Results

• Of the 68 patients in whom the paddle electrode was removed, postoperative complications occurred in 8 patients (11.75%), 2 of which were classified as major (postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak and large suprafascial hematoma) and both underwent reoperation.
• Minor complications were reported in 8.82%, which included wound dehiscence, infection, and prolonged ileus in 1 case
• Patients who developed complications lost ≥20 mL blood when compared with patients who did not develop complications.