If your SCS therapy works for you, you will move to the permanent implant phase,
during which an IPG will be implanted in your body. Your doctor will select the implant
site based on your individual body type and need. This procedure may be done under
local or general anesthesia.
Following either of the implant procedures, you will be given instructions on how to
care for the wound. You may experience some pain and tenderness around the
implant site. Tell the clinical team if you are uncomfortable or in pain.
Following the IPG surgery, you may find you are very aware of the implanted device
and may want to touch it. Try to avoid twisting or fiddling with the IPG. If you manage
to flip the implanted device over in your body, it will not work properly. Do not pull on
the lead, which can cause it to loosen or even come out. Touching the implant site too
much can cause your skin to get very thin in that area.
In the first weeks after surgery, avoid big and sudden movements, bending over,
lifting heavy objects, and stretching. Your IPG and lead(s) need a few weeks in the
body to become secure. Your doctor or nurse will advise you on what you should and
should not do in these first weeks after implantation.
TRIAL PHASE
If you are in the Trial Phase of getting the Senza system, this is an exciting and
important time. The Senza system may offer you a way to control your pain without
taking more drugs. In fact, you may be able to discontinue some of your drugs and still
get pain control. To get the best results during this important time, please follow your
doctor’s advice closely.
When you are in the trial phase, you will receive a Trial Stimulator and a Remote
Control so you have a chance to see if the Senza system works for you. If it works well
for you, you will have an IPG implanted in the body to replace the Trial Stimulator.
This trial phase typically lasts several days.
For your trial, your doctor has set up a special stimulation program for you. He or she
has adjusted the device’s features specifically for you. You will be given the external
Trial Stimulator, a Remote Control, and some cables. Using this system, you can test
the stimulation system to see how it works for you. At the end of the trial phase, you
will discuss with your doctor whether or not a device should be implanted in your
body to take the place of the Trial Stimulator.
Patient Manual 11052 Rev A (2015-01-16) 20
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