Dorsal Root Ganglion Stimulation (DRG) is a relatively new treatment that is used to help manage chronic pain. It is a non-invasive procedure that involves the use of electrical stimulation to the dorsal root ganglia, which are a cluster of cells located in the spine that are responsible for sending pain signals to the brain. This stimulation ultimately helps to reduce pain signals that are sent to the brain. DRG uses a device made up of electrodes and an implantable pulse generator, much like other types of stimulation treatments.
Did You Know?
Dorsal root ganglion stimulation (DRG) can address areas that cannot be reached with traditional spinal cord stimulation. This is because the dorsal root ganglia is located within the epidural space of the spine and can provide focused stimulation to specific areas.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Am I a candidate for Dorsal Root Ganglion Stimulation (DRG)?
DRG therapy may be an option for you if you are suffering from chronic pain in the lower part of the body (groin, hip, knee, or foot) that has not responded to other treatments. People with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) have also found DRG therapy to be effective in relieving pain. To determine if DRG is right for you, schedule a consultation with our pain specialists at MVM Health: Pain, Vein, & Wellness today.
What can I expect when receiving Dorsal Root Ganglion Stimulation (DRG)?
Before having a dorsal root ganglion stimulator placed, you will undergo a trial period. This is done to ensure that DRG stimulation is an effective treatment for your pain. A small wire will be placed along the affected DRG and connected to a generator. The generator will be worn outside of the body and can be used to adjust the strength and frequency of the electrical impulses. The trial period is about a week. If you experience a 50% or more reduction in pain, then the procedure is considered a success and the permanent device can be placed.
The placement of a DRG stimulator is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure performed with local anesthetic and mild sedation. During the procedure, a small device is placed under the skin through a small incision in the upper buttock or lower back. This means that there is no need for open surgery, which can be a big benefit for many people. The stimulator is then connected to wires that are threaded through the body to the epidural space where the DRG is located. If the stimulator is not providing enough relief, it can be adjusted or turned off.
What can I expect after treatment?
After you have a DRG stimulator placed, you will wake up in a recovery room where you will remain until the effects of the anesthesia have worn off. You can expect to be discharged within 1-2 hours of the surgery. Your doctor will provide you with postoperative instructions to follow, but you can expect to abstain from strenuous activities for at least 2 weeks. You will also likely have stitches that will need to be removed around 3 days after surgery. In most cases, you can expect your incision to heal within 2-4 weeks following surgery.
Looking for Pain Relief?
MVM Health: Pain, Vein, and Wellness services LeHigh Valley, Scranton, Wilkes Barre, and surrounding communities. Reach out to us today to request an appointment.
