Eletroestimulação Epidural Medular no Tratamento da Dor de Difícil Controle e Melhora da Qualidade de Vida

Introduction: Prospective study in a convenience sample recruited selectively individuals presenting with pain refractory to conventional treatment. Method: Two patients presenting with chronic nonmalignant pain, undergoing treatment at the Pain Clinic of the HB were evaluated and followed up. Data were collected between March 2009 and June 2010. Both patients were submitted to morphine agents, antidepressants, neuroleptics and anticonvulsants. Physiotherapy treatment based on stretching, acupuncture, infiltration of trigger points, heat, massage and ultrasound were also done. Results: Final results were regular in both cases. Duration of pain complaint ranged between 3 and 5 years. Patient in case I presented with axial low back pain due to myofascial pain syndrome in lumbar quadrate muscle and gluteus maximus associated with chronic L5 radiculopathy. In case II there was an incomplete spinal cord injury which evolved from ASIA C to ASIA A 3 months after spinal canal surgical decompressionassociated with arthrodesis. In both patients a T3-T4 epidural quadripolar plate type electrode was implanted, besides psychological rehabilitation of disabilities, physical and social dynamics through activities and educational and psychosocial approach designed to reduce pain, promote behavioral change and improvement of the performance of daily life activities.  Conclusion: After the follow-up period, there was a complete reduction of the use of opioids ,with manteinance of the adjuvant therapy , together with a better quality of life.