Perugia Hospital Pioneers Advanced pain Therapy with Neurostimulator Implants
The Pain Medicine Center at Perugia Hospital has achieved a notable breakthrough in chronic pain management with the accomplished implementation of its first medullary and peripheral neurostimulator implants.This innovative, drug-free therapy offers a new option for patients with complex, intractable pain who haven’t found relief through traditional methods like medication or surgery.
The neurostimulator functions much like a pacemaker, utilizing an implanted pulse generator to deliver electrical impulses. Rather of regulating heart rhythm, these impulses target the spinal cord or specific nerves, effectively blocking and modulating pain signals.
“These procedures represent a major advancement in how we treat chronic pain,” explains Dr. Massimo Renzini, head of the Pain Medicine centre. “By adopting these innovative techniques, we’re able to treat highly complex cases, personalize treatment plans, and ultimately improve patients’ quality of life while working to prevent the progression of their condition.”
The first implant provided relief to a 46-year-old patient suffering from debilitating pelvic pain stemming from post-operative complications following colorectal surgery in 2019. After unsuccessful treatments at specialized centers in Tuscany and Lombardy, the patient experienced positive results with the neurostimulation therapy. The minimally invasive procedure,guided by radiological imaging and performed under local anesthesia,involved placing two electrodes in the sacral area,with potential extension into the lumbar epidural space to address abdominal pain. A small generator, implanted under the skin near the gluteus or abdomen, powers the system and allows the patient to adjust stimulation intensity using a remote control. Hospital stays average three days.
A second successful implant addressed chronic migraine in a 76-year-old patient who had exhausted other treatment options, including medication, botulinum toxin injections, and nerve blocks. Electrodes where implanted near the occipital nerves at the back of the head, guided by ultrasound and radiofrequency imaging, and connected to a rechargeable generator positioned in the lumbar region. The procedure was performed under local anesthesia and sedation.
The implantations were led by Dr.renzini,in collaboration with Dr. Giulia Pedini, within the operating room of the Anesthesia and Resuscitation Pain Medicine centre, directed by Dr.Fabio Gori, with support from nursing staff and radiology technicians.
Perugia Hospital’s General Director, Dr. Antonio d’urso,expressed his enthusiasm,stating,”I commend the entire Pain medicine Centre team for bringing this cutting-edge treatment to our facility. These interventions demonstrate a commitment to excellence and position Perugia Hospital as a leader in chronic pain care.”
Regional President Stefania Proietti echoed this sentiment, adding, “It’s a source of pride for our region to offer Umbrian citizens access to this level of technology and expertise, providing real hope to patients who previously had limited therapeutic options and were forced to seek care outside the region.”
