Spinal Cord Stimulation for Intractable Mononeuropathy

Rationale: For patients with mononeuropathy, literature has shown that spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is an effective therapy for patients who are therapy-resistant to more conventional treatments. However, there is a strong need for higher quality evidence to determine the place of this therapy in this target group. Before conducting a large randomized controlled trial (RCT) we propose to conduct an explorative pilot study based on which an effect size estimation and power calculation for a larger study can be done. We will assess the effects of SCS in patients with mononeuropathy measured according to the "Initiative on Methods, Measurement, and Pain Assessment in Clinical Trials" (IMMPACT) guidelines, and assess the stimulation paradigm preferences in these patients. Objective: To perform an explorative pilot study based on which an effect size estimation and power calculation for an efficacy trial can be done. Study design: Mono-center explorative pilot study in 12 patients with intractable peripheral mononeuropathic pain who receive a spinal cord stimulator at the Erasmus Medical Centre. Study population: 12 patients suffering from intractable peripheral mononeuropathic pain. Intervention: Participants who receive a spinal cord stimulator must fill in IMMPACT guideline questionnaires and undergo several measurement procedures after receiving SCS implantation. The effect of various SCS paradigms on the chronic mononeuropathic pain is assessed at 3 and 6 months. Main study parameters/endpoints: Effect of 6 months of individually optimized SCS in patients with mononeuropathy according to the IMMPACT guidelines.