Deep brain stimulation and motor cortical stimulation for neuropathic pain

Curr Pain Headache Rep. 2011 Feb;15(1):8-13. doi: 10.1007/s11916-010-0161-3.

Abstract

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an important treatment option for neuropathic pain. DBS has a considerable history, and it can be used successfully for a wide number of pain syndromes. Epidural motor cortex stimulation (MCS) also is a treatment option for neuropathic pain. Less invasive than DBS, MCS has been rapidly adopted and studied since first described in 1991. A growing body of literature supports the use of MCS for facial pain, though further study to better define the mechanism of action and the most appropriate patient populations is ongoing.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Deep Brain Stimulation / methods*
  • Electric Stimulation Therapy / methods*
  • Humans
  • Motor Cortex / physiology*
  • Neuralgia / physiopathology*
  • Neuralgia / therapy*