Long-term Multicolumn-Lead Spinal Cord Stimulation Efficacy in Patients Suffering from a Failed Back Surgery Syndrome: A Six-Year Prospective Follow-up Study.

Abstract Objectives The short and middle-term multicolumn-lead spinal cord stimulation (SCS) control of back pain (BP) and leg pain (LP) in Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS) patients is well documented. Our study aimed at investigating whether SCS remains efficient after 72 months. Patients and Methods In an observational and single-center study, we assessed SCS efficacy in 62 FBSS patients. BP, LP, and magnitude of daily activity limitation (DAL) were graded using a 0-10 visual analogue scale (VAS) preoperatively and 2, 6, 12, 24, 36 and 72 months after SCS implantation. Quality of sleep, use of medications and complications were also recorded. Results Fifteen patients with complete follow-up were still using their SCS device at 72 months (SCS+). In them, BP, LP and DAL VAS respectively changed from [median (IQR)] 9 (8.5-10), 7 (6-8) and 8 (8-9) preoperatively to 4 (3-4.5), 3 (1.5-3.5) and 3 (2-4) at 72 months. Quality of sleep and analgesic medication consumption also improved. In a subset of patients no longer using SCS after 72 months (SCS-), BP, LP, DAL, quality of sleep, and medication consumption were comparable to SCS+ patients. SCS- patients were less satisfied with the technique and were less professionally active than SCS+ patients. Conclusions SCS provides a sustained beneficial effect on BP, LP, DAL, sleep, and medication consumption in FBSS patients still using it at 72 months. Further studies are needed to identify the factors of adherence to the technique and the chances of success, in comparison to the natural evolution of FBSS.