Understanding Burst SCS: Mechanisms and Applications
Intro
Burst Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) represents a significant evolution in the field of pain management therapies. This method, distinguishing itself from traditional SCS, utilizes short bursts of electrical stimulation, aiming to modulate pain signals more effectively. By addressing the neurophysiological underpinnings, this technique promises enhanced pain relief with potentially fewer side effects.
Pain management remains a crucial aspect of healthcare. The prevalence of chronic pain conditions, such as neuropathy or post-surgical pain, necessitates the exploration of innovative treatments. Burst SCS stands as a pivotal advancement, particularly for patients who have not responded well to conventional therapies.
Key Findings
Major Results
Research indicates that Burst SCS may offer superior outcomes in pain relief when compared to standard SCS. Patients report higher satisfaction levels, with many experiencing notable improvements in their quality of life. Trials show that this technique not only manages pain but also impacts emotional well-being positively.
- Patients with chronic pain found increased analgesia.
- Higher degrees of patient satisfaction were noted.
Clinical studies suggest that Burst SCS alters the way the central nervous system processes pain. This modulation can lead to a reduction in pain perception and improve motor control.
Discussion of Findings
The findings highlight significant differences between Burst SCS and traditional methods. Patients undergoing Burst SCS often exhibit reduced side effects commonly associated with constant stimulation, such as discomfort and nerve irritation. The brief bursts mimic natural signaling, which may contribute to improved long-term outcomes.
Moreover, the sustained action of Burst SCS suggests potential for more effective integration into multidisciplinary pain management programs. This approach could revolutionize treatment, particularly for hard-to-manage chronic pain cases.
"The implementation of Burst SCS opens new avenues in pain management, allowing for tailored approaches based on individual patient needs."
Methodology
Research Design
Investigations into Burst SCS have employed various research designs to meticulously analyze its effects. Clinical trials frequently utilize randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to assess its efficacy against traditional SCS. This robust framework ensures the reliability of findings and minimizes biases.
Data Collection Methods
Data collection usually involves a combination of quantitative measures and qualitative assessments. Statistical analyses are used to evaluate pain scores, medication use, and patient satisfaction surveys. Furthermore, neurological assessments might be conducted to observe changes in sensory and motor functions post-therapy.
Prelims to Burst SCS
The concept of Burst Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) stands out due to its significant implications in the field of pain management. Understanding Burst SCS is crucial for healthcare professionals, researchers, and patients alike. As chronic pain including neuropathic pain remains a major challenge to treat, innovations like Burst SCS offer new dimensions in therapy. This section introduces the fundamental understanding of Burst SCS, emphasizing its relevance in effective pain relief.
Defining Burst SCS
Burst SCS is a specialized form of spinal cord stimulation therapy employed to manage chronic pain. In this technique, electrical impulses are delivered to the spinal cord in bursts rather than continuous tones. This results in a unique pattern of stimulation, believed to be more effective in altering the perception of pain. The key characteristic of Burst SCS is its ability to activate a greater number of dorsal column fibers with less discomfort compared to traditional SCS methods. This mechanism aims to produce a more natural pain relief experience.
Historical Context of Pain Management
Historically, pain management has evolved significantly over time, adapting to advances in medical technology and deeper insights into the physiology of pain. Before the introduction of spinal cord stimulation, chronic pain was mostly treated with medications, physical therapy, and surgical interventions. These methods often offered limited relief or presented significant risk factors.
The introduction of traditional SCS in the late 20th century marked a turning point in pain management. This technology primarily aimed to interrupt pain signals before they reached the brain, leading to a decreased perception of pain. From its inception, research into improving SCS technologies has been ongoing, culminating in the development of Burst SCS. This innovation illustrates the continuous quest for more effective, patient-centered approaches in managing chronic pain.
"Burst SCS offers a promising alternative by potentially enhancing efficacy while minimizing side effects."
In summary, the historical trajectory of pain management set the foundation for advances like Burst SCS. Understanding this evolution provides context for recognizing the significance of innovations in treating chronic pain and highlights the ongoing need for effective pain management solutions.
Mechanisms of Burst SCS
The mechanisms of Burst Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) play a crucial role in understanding how this innovative approach differs from traditional neuromodulation methods. It is important to explore these mechanisms as they provide insights into the physiological, biochemical, and clinical basis of Burst SCS. Knowing these details helps researchers and healthcare professionals identify the benefits and specific applications of the therapy. By understanding these mechanisms, one can appreciate how Burst SCS offers new avenues for managing chronic pain, an area that remains challenging in medicine.
Physiological Basis of Burst Stimulation
Burst SCS operates on a unique physiological framework. Unlike conventional SCS that delivers continuous electrical pulses, Burst SCS follows a specific pattern. It delivers a series of pulses in rapid bursts, which mimic the body’s natural firing pattern of neurons. This specific modulation can lead to a more effective activation of pain-relief pathways in the spinal cord.
Recent studies have indicated that Burst SCS leads to stronger inhibition of pain pathways. The mechanism leverages the principles of temporal summation, where bursts stimulate a greater overall response in the nervous system. A good understanding of the physiological mechanisms supports research and can enhance device design.
Neurotransmitter Modulation
Neurotransmitter effects are critical to the action of Burst SCS. The delivery of bursts of electrical stimulation induces complex biochemical responses in the spinal cord. It has been shown to affect levels of key neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and endorphins. These changes facilitate a multi-layered approach to pain reduction.
Enhanced release of serotonin can result in improved mood and decreased perception of pain. Additionally, increased levels of norepinephrine may heighten the analgesic effects. Understanding these neurotransmitter dynamics is vital to creating more effective treatment protocols for managing chronic and acute pain.
Impact on Pain Pathways
Burst SCS significantly influences pain pathways. By engaging both afferent and efferent pathways in the nervous system, it alters the way pain signals are transmitted. This modulation of signals can reduce the sensation of pain experienced by the patient. The burst stimulation likely disrupts the pain signals traveling to the brain, effectively decreasing their impact.
Furthermore, studies have indicated that Burst SCS has the potential to promote neuroplasticity in spinal cord pathways. This adaptability may result in long-lasting pain relief even after the stimulation is discontinued. The ability of Burst SCS to influence pain pathways is a promising area for further research, leading to potential advancements in patient care.
Understanding the mechanisms behind Burst SCS can provide essential insight for developing personalized treatment plans that apply cutting-edge technology to individual patient needs.
Clinical Applications of Burst SCS
The clinical applications of Burst Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) are crucial in the practical implementation of this technology within pain management strategies. Understanding how Burst SCS can be applied effectively highlights the potential benefits for patients suffering from different pain types. Moreover, it reinforces the role of Burst SCS in giving healthcare providers a valuable tool for addressing complex pain challenges. This section outlines three primary applications: chronic pain management, post-surgical pain relief, and neuropathic pain treatment.
Chronic Pain Management
Chronic pain is a complex condition that affects many individuals, often requiring multifaceted treatment approaches. Burst SCS shows promise for managing chronic pain. The mechanism of action for Burst SCS can alter the perception of pain through a unique pattern of stimulation. Patients often report improvements in symptom management compared to traditional SCS methods. Moreover, studies indicate increased patient satisfaction due to reduced pain levels and enhanced quality of life.
The application of Burst SCS in chronic pain management is significant because:
- It can provide an alternative when conventional medical treatments fail.
- It minimizes the risk of tolerance, which occurs with standard pharmacological therapies.
- Patients experience fewer side effects compared to medication.
In many cases, chronic pain patients have found success with Burst SCS, leading to decreased reliance on opiates and other pain-relief medications.
Post-Surgical Pain Relief
Post-surgical pain poses a challenge, as it can lead to chronic pain syndromes if not managed effectively. Burst SCS can serve as an innovative solution in this context. By directly targeting the pain signals during the recovery phase, Burst SCS aids in alleviating discomfort. Also, it can help prevent the development of chronic pain conditions post-surgery.
The efficiency of Burst SCS in post-surgical situations can be summarized as follows:
- Reduced Pain Intensity: Many patients report marked decreases in pain severity.
- Shortened Recovery Time: Effective pain management may lead to faster healing and rehabilitation.
- Improved Overall Satisfaction: Overall, satisfaction levels improve as patients manage pain more effectively.
This application demonstrates the technology’s versatility, appealing to patients undergoing various surgical procedures such as orthopedic, spinal, or cardiac surgeries.
Neuropathic Pain Treatment
Neuropathic pain arises from conditions affecting the nervous system, often resulting in severe discomfort. Traditional treatment methods for neuropathic pain can be ineffective. Burst SCS offers a promising alternative. Research has indicated that the burst stimulation pattern can help reset neural pathways, effectively modulating pain perception.
Indeed, Burst SCS is specifically relevant for:
- Diabetic neuropathy: Patients suffering from diabetic peripheral neuropathy may find significant relief.
- Phantom limb pain: Individuals with amputations often experience phantom limb sensations, where Burst SCS has shown efficacy.
- Post-herpetic neuralgia: This condition can result from shingles, where Burst SCS can alleviate symptoms.
Such applications suggest that Burst SCS is not only a viable option but possibly a preferred choice in certain neuropathic conditions.
Efficacy of Burst SCS
The efficacy of Burst Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is a crucial topic in understanding its role in pain management. It encompasses various dimensions, including comparative effectiveness, patient outcomes, and assessments of quality of life. Evaluating how Burst SCS performs in clinical settings against traditional SCS offers valuable insights into its potential advantages. Moreover, patient-centric metrics and quality of life indicators play an instrumental role in guiding treatment decisions and improving overall healthcare delivery.
Comparative Studies with Traditional SCS
Comparative studies are essential for determining the efficacy of Burst SCS against traditional SCS, which utilizes a continuous stimulation waveform. Research has indicated that Burst SCS can provide superior pain relief while minimizing unwanted side effects, such as dysesthesia. Key findings from various studies show that Burst SCS may lead to greater reductions in pain intensity scores and improved functional outcomes.
Recent literature often highlights that patients receiving Burst SCS report higher satisfaction rates and lower medication consumption post-implantation compared to those using traditional methods. These factors contribute to the growing body of evidence supporting the use of Burst stimulation as a viable option in chronic pain management.
Patient Outcome Metrics
Assessing patient outcomes is a fundamental aspect of evaluating the effectiveness of Burst SCS. Common metrics include pain relief, functional improvement, and reduction in medication dependence. Surveys and validated scales such as the Visual Analog Scale and the Oswestry Disability Index are frequently employed to quantify these outcomes.
Studies have shown that many patients experience significant pain reduction within weeks of initiating Burst SCS. Furthermore, a continuous assessment of outcomes helps in tailoring individualized treatment plans. Regular follow-ups not only provide data on pain relief but also offer insight into the therapy's impact on daily activities and overall well-being.
“Effective pain management goes beyond just alleviating pain; it is about enhancing the quality of patients' lives.”
Quality of Life Assessments
Quality of life assessments form another core element in understanding the efficacy of Burst SCS. Improvements in quality of life indicators can include enhancements in physical health, psychological well-being, and social engagement. Tools such as the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) and other similar questionnaires provide comprehensive data to assess these dimensions.
Research has illustrated that patients who receive Burst SCS often report better quality of life outcomes compared to other treatment methods. Key domains that see improvements involve emotional health, social functioning, and the ability to partake in daily activities more effectively. Hence, evaluating quality of life alongside pain measures is vital for a holistic understanding of Burst SCS efficacy.
In summary, the efficacy of Burst SCS is not merely determined by numerical pain scores. It includes a broader scope of patient experiences, adjustments in function, and overall life quality, making it a significant consideration in pain management approaches.
Clinical Trials and Research Findings
The role of clinical trials in the evaluation of Burst Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is pivotal. They provide empirical evidence to support the efficacy and safety of this novel pain management technique. Clinical trials assess patient outcomes, allowing for a thorough analysis of both short-term and long-term effects. Research findings derived from these trials enhance the understanding of Burst SCS and inform clinical practice.
Overview of Key Studies
Various key studies examine the effectiveness of Burst SCS. Each trial focuses on different aspects, such as pain relief, functionality, and quality of life. One prominent study published in Neurology indicated a significant reduction in pain scores among patients using Burst SCS compared to traditional techniques.
Another study, conducted over a two-year period, explored the adaptability of various patient profiles to Burst SCS, revealing high satisfaction rates in diverse populations. It highlighted that patients previously unresponsive to conventional SCS often showed remarkable benefits from Burst technology. These outcomes underscore the necessity of continuing clinical research to refine patient selection criteria and further understand the mechanisms at play.
Long-Term Outcomes
Long-term outcomes from clinical trials are crucial for evaluating sustained effectiveness. Studies have shown that patients who benefit from Burst SCS often experience ongoing pain relief extending well beyond the initial treatment period. It is essential to monitor these patients to truly understand the durability of pain management.
Research indicates that many individuals report a consistent improvement in their quality of life, with reduced reliance on opioid medications. Regular follow-ups in these studies provide insight into the device’s longevity and what adjustments may be necessary over time. Such data not only validate Burst SCS's efficacy but also assist in exploring enhancements for device performance.
Meta-Analyses
Meta-analyses synthesize data from multiple studies to provide a comprehensive overview of Burst SCS effectiveness. These analyses reveal consistent patterns, aiding in confirming the overall positive impact of Burst SCS on chronic pain patients. Reviewing collective findings displayed how Burst SCS may lead to significant reductions in analgesic consumption while maintaining pain relief.
Further, a notable meta-analysis in The Journal of Pain analyzed the outcomes of numerous trials, affirming a substantial advantage of Burst SCS over traditional models. This aggregated data brings clarity to the ongoing dialogue about the most effective pain management approaches and supports the case for broader adoption of Burst SCS as a viable therapeutic option.
Patient Selection Criteria
The selection of appropriate candidates for Burst Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is a critical aspect of the overall treatment strategy. Proper patient selection can significantly influence the effectiveness of the therapy and the satisfaction levels of patients. This section will explore the factors that determine ideal candidates for Burst SCS, as well as those who should be excluded due to potential complications or unfavorable outcomes.
Ideal Candidates for Burst SCS
Ideal candidates for Burst SCS are individuals experiencing chronic pain that does not respond adequately to conservative treatments. Candidates often present with conditions such as:
- Chronic neuropathic pain
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
- Failed back surgery syndrome
- Primarily leg or lower back pain due to degenerative conditions
In addition to specific pain diagnoses, several other considerations play important roles:
- Duration of Pain: Candidates should have experienced chronic pain for at least six months.
- Previous Treatments: Candidates who have tried other management options, such as medications or physical therapy, but found them lacking can benefit from Burst SCS.
- Psychological Readiness: Patients should show a realistic understanding of the expected outcomes and be psychologically prepared for the surgical procedure and the implications of long-term pain management.
Surgeons often conduct thorough assessments, including multidisciplinary evaluations. This process is crucial to ensure that candidates have seriously considered their options and are ready to commit to this type of treatment.
Exclusion Criteria
While identifying suitable candidates is vital, it is equally important to recognize who should not undergo Burst SCS. Key exclusion criteria include:
- Psychiatric Disorders: Individuals with uncontrolled psychiatric conditions may not be suitable due to the complexities these conditions introduce.
- Infection Risks: Candidates with active infections in the spinal area or systemic infections should be excluded to prevent further health complications.
- Coexisting Medical Conditions: Critical health issues, such as severe cardiovascular diseases, may render patients too high-risk for implantation surgery.
- Noncompliance Risks: Patients with a history of noncompliance in treatment can hinder the effectiveness of Burst SCS, as active participation is essential.
Ultimately, careful evaluation aids in assembling a competent patient group, where risks are minimized and the probability of successful outcomes is maximized. Ensuring the right patients receive Burst SCS is crucial for optimizing resource allocation and improving the quality of life for those suffering from chronic pain.
Technical Aspects of Burst SCS Devices
The technical aspects of Burst Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) devices are critical in understanding their implementation and efficacy. These devices must be designed with precision to effectively deliver therapeutic stimulation tailored to the patient's needs. Features such as device configurations, surgical implantation techniques, and ongoing maintenance and monitoring are vital considerations in ensuring optimal performance and patient satisfaction.
Device Configurations and Features
Burst SCS devices come with various configurations designed to optimize patient outcomes. Key features include:
- Pulse Width: The duration of the electrical pulse, which can affect the comfort and efficacy of stimulation.
- Frequency: Different stimulation frequencies may impact pain relief and patient experience. Burst SCS typically uses a higher frequency, which achieves better analgesic effects without causing discomfort.
- Electrode Placement: The location and arrangement of electrodes determine how stimulation influences the spinal cord, affecting both pain modulation and side effects.
These configurations allow for adaptability in treatment. Customization is critical in addressing diverse patient needs and managing specific pain syndromes. Furthermore, advancements such as wireless technology and remote programming capabilities enhance usability and monitoring.
Surgical Techniques for Implantation
The surgical implantation of Burst SCS devices requires specific techniques to ensure effective placement and functionality.
- Minimally Invasive Approaches: Surgeons often use minimally invasive techniques, which reduce recovery times and minimize tissue damage. This is essential for maintaining patient comfort during the procedure.
- Imaging Guidance: Utilizing fluoroscopy or computed tomography (CT) aids surgeons in placing electrodes with precision. Accurate placement is crucial for maximizing the device's efficacy in pain modulation.
Following implantation, patient education on device functionality and care is crucial for enhancing adherence and ensuring long-term success.
Maintenance and Monitoring
Ongoing maintenance and monitoring of Burst SCS devices present essential components to promote efficacy and minimize issues. Patients typically undergo regular follow-ups to assess:
- Device Functionality: Regular checks can identify any technical issues that might arise.
- Battery Life: Monitoring battery levels ensures that devices remain operational without unexpected interruption.
- Adaptation to Changes: As patients may adapt to pain relief mechanisms, adjustments in stimulation parameters may be necessary to sustain optimal pain management.
Healthcare professionals should provide guidelines for patients, including information on software updates and signs of device malfunctions. This proactive approach fosters trust and encourages engagement in their care process.
Adequate knowledge and support in maintaining Burst SCS devices can enhance patient satisfaction and treatment outcomes.
These technical aspects play a crucial role in understanding the overall effectiveness and success of Burst SCS. Continued advancements in technology and techniques are imperative to address the evolving landscape of pain management.
Challenges in Burst SCS Implementation
The implementation of Burst Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is not without its hurdles. These challenges can impede the successful integration of this innovative approach into clinical practice. Understanding these obstacles is crucial for healthcare professionals and researchers. It helps in crafting strategies to overcome them, ultimately improving patient outcomes. This section will detail the specific challenges faced in the realization of Burst SCS, emphasizing technical limitations, patient adherence issues, and regulatory hurdles.
Technical Limitations
Technical aspects of Burst SCS devices present significant challenges. One primary limitation is the precision required in device programming. Although burst stimulation offers promising pain management capabilities, its effectiveness depends highly on the optimal adjustment of parameters. Ensuring accurate placement of electrodes and proper configurations is essential for the success of the therapy. Missing the target can lead to suboptimal pain relief or adverse effects.
Another technical concern involves the durability of devices. Burst SCS systems must withstand long-term use without failure. Battery life is a recurring issue; device recharging and replacement can disrupt treatment continuity and lead to patient dissatisfaction. Moreover, advancements in technology must be matched with clinical practices, necessitating ongoing training for healthcare providers.
Patient Adherence Issues
Adherence to Burst SCS therapy can often be problematic. Patients might experience variable responses to the treatment, leading to frustration or skepticism regarding its efficacy. This variability can prevent consistent usage of the device. Patients may also struggle with the burden of managing the technology, including recharging and adjusting settings. User-friendly designs and comprehensive patient education are critical to improving adherence rates.
Moreover, psychological factors play a role in patient commitment. The perception of implanted devices can evoke fear or hesitation among potential users. Addressing these fears through detailed discussions and support can foster a more positive attitude towards the treatment.
Regulatory Hurdles
Regulatory challenges represent a major barrier to the adoption of Burst SCS technology. Navigating the approval processes involves complex documentation and rigorous clinical trials. Agencies like the Food and Drug Administration have strict requirements for new devices, which can slow down the introduction of innovative therapies into the market. Delays can hinder patients from accessing advanced pain management solutions.
Additionally, policy changes can impact funding and reimbursement strategies for Burst SCS therapies. Access to financial support can significantly influence a patient’s choice regarding treatment modalities. Ensuring that healthcare providers have the necessary training is paramount to not only meeting regulatory standards but also enhancing patient care.
"The successful integration of Burst SCS devices hinges not only on technology but also on addressing practical and regulatory challenges."
Future Directions in Burst SCS Research
Research into Burst Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is advancing rapidly. Understanding future directions is essential for optimizing treatment outcomes for patients suffering from chronic pain. Recent developments indicate significant promise in enhancing the effectiveness of burst stimulation. This can improve quality of life for many individuals struggling with unmanageable pain. Focusing on the upcoming innovations in technology, approaches in personalized medicine, and the potential for expanded applications will help shape the future landscape of pain management therapies.
Technological Innovations
Technological innovation becomes a cornerstone in the evolution of Burst SCS. Incorporating advanced features into devices can vastly improve patient experience and treatment efficacy. Some notable innovations include:
- Wireless connectivity: This allows for real-time monitoring and adjustments of stimulation parameters, adapting to the patient’s needs seamlessly.
- Smart algorithms: These algorithms can analyze data trends and suggest modifications to enhance pain relief. This helps clinicians tailor the treatment plan more accurately.
- Miniaturization of devices: Smaller, less intrusive devices can lead to increased comfort for patients and ease of implantation.
Ongoing research into materials and battery life also plays a crucial role in ensuring the longevity and reliability of devices. Enhancing these technologies can result in increased patient satisfaction and adherence to treatments.
Personalized Medicine Approaches
Adopting personalized medicine approaches within Burst SCS can transform pain management dramatically. Individualizing treatment based on a patient's unique pain profiles and physiological responses leads to improved outcomes. Key considerations include:
- Biomarker identification: Understanding which biomarkers correlate with positive responses to burst stimulation is essential. This can help in selecting the right candidate for the therapy.
- Genetic profiling: Research on genetic variations may reveal how different patients metabolize pain medications and respond to SCS differently.
- Patient feedback mechanisms: Continuous collection of patient-reported outcomes can inform modifications in therapy tailored to the patient's preferences and responses.
These personalized strategies can lead to a more effective and targeted approach, maximizing the benefits of Burst SCS.
Potential for Expanded Applications
The potential applications of Burst SCS extend beyond traditional pain management. As research evolves, various new clinical scenarios can benefit from this technology. Essential areas for exploration include:
- Psychological conditions: Conditions like depression and anxiety may have underlying pain components that Burst SCS could alleviate. Exploring this relationship can widen patient eligibility.
- Rehabilitation settings: Burst SCS can assist individuals recovering from surgeries or traumatic injuries by managing pain effectively during rehabilitation.
- Palliative care: In managing pain for terminal patients, Burst SCS could be an effective tool, improving comfort and overall life quality.
Closure
The discussion on Burst Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) reveals the intricate mechanisms and extensive applications that underscore its significance in pain management. This article not only encapsulates the fundamental understanding of Burst SCS but also articulates its critical role in current and future therapeutic landscapes.
Summarizing Key Insights
Throughout this work, we have established several key insights regarding Burst SCS. Firstly, its non-linear stimulation patterns differentiate it from traditional SCS, resulting in unique modulation of pain pathways. The physiological basis of Burst SCS relies on specific neurotransmitter interactions which contribute to enhanced analgesic effects. Clinical evidence indicates that Burst SCS has proven effective for diverse pain conditions, particularly chronic pain, post-surgical pain, and neuropathic pain. Furthermore, the data from comparative studies points towards improved patient outcomes and satisfaction levels when utilizing Burst SCS compared to traditional methods.
The various challenges, such as technical limitations and patient adherence issues, demonstrate that while Burst SCS offers promising potential, there is still room for enhancement and wider implementation. Identifying ideal candidates for this therapy is crucial, as it influences the overall effectiveness and patient experience.
The Role of Burst SCS in Future Pain Management
Looking ahead, the prospects for Burst SCS in pain management appear optimistic. Ongoing research into technological innovations may lead to even more refined and effective stimulation profiles. Additionally, there is a growing trend towards personalized medicine approaches, which could ensure better patient-tailored therapies that consider individual variations in pain perception and response to treatment.
The potential for expanded applications cannot be overlooked. Burst SCS may evolve beyond its current uses, possibly intersecting with new fields of pain management. It will be essential for clinicians and researchers to remain attuned to evolving studies and trials to harness the full potential of this technique.
