Pain Tolerance Threshold: A Pilot Study of an Objective Measurement of Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial Results

Abstract

Objective. There is a lack of objective measurements of the spinal cord stimulator (SCS) trial results, which leads to increased number of failed permanent placements. Certain modes of sensory functions were tested as possible correlates with trial success. Design. A convenience sample of 44 patients undergoing SCS trial underwent current perception threshold (CPT), pain perception threshold (PPT) and pain tolerance threshold (PTT) testing before and after the procedure. PPT and PTT were also recorded twice at the same period of time in 9 volunteers. Results. PPT, but not PTT, showed an unacceptably high level of intra-individual variability in volunteers. CPT measurements did not produce significant changes after SCS use. PTT not only showed significant changes after SCS trial, but also correlated with the results of the trial and success of the permanent implantation. Conclusion. PTT may possibly serve as an objective measurement of the SCS trial outcome.