Invasive Neuromodulation Therapies

Invasive neuromodulation therapies involve surgical implantation of devices to deliver controlled electrical stimulation to specific nerves, spinal cord regions, or deep brain areas.

Spinal Cord Stimulation

Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is an advanced therapy primarily used to manage chronic neuropathic pain, especially when other treatments have proven ineffective. By implanting electrodes in the epidural space over the spinal cord, SCS delivers targeted electrical impulses that disrupt pain signals, leading to significant relief for conditions such as persistent spinal pain syndrome and complex regional pain syndrome.

Deep Brain Stimulation
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) involves the surgical implantation of electrodes in specific areas of the brain to modulate abnormal electrical activity. It is widely used for neurological disorders like Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, and dystonia, providing symptom improvement by influencing neural circuits and brain activity.

Occipital Nerve Stimulation
Occipital Nerve Stimulation (ONS) is a specialised neuromodulation technique targeting the occipital nerves at the back of the head. It is most commonly used to treat severe, refractory migraine and cluster headaches by sending mild electrical impulses that alter pain transmission and perception.

Vagus Nerve Stimulation
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) utilises a device that sends electrical pulses to the vagus nerve in the neck. This therapy is approved for treatment-resistant epilepsy and depression and is under research for inflammatory and autoimmune disorders. VNS works by modulating neural pathways between the body and brain, helping reduce seizure frequency and improve mood.

Motor Cortex Stimulation
Motor Cortex Stimulation (MCS) is a neuromodulation therapy targeting the motor cortex area of the brain through surgically implanted electrodes. It is primarily used to alleviate certain types of neuropathic pain and movement disorders by modifying abnormal neuronal activity.

Sacral Nerve Stimulation
Sacral Nerve Stimulation (SNS) involves implanting a device that stimulates nerves controlling bladder and bowel function. SNS is an effective treatment for conditions such as urinary incontinence, faecal incontinence, and certain forms of pelvic pain, providing improved quality of life by restoring normal nerve communication.