Anticipating and preventing complications in spinal cord stimulator implantation

Introduction: Spinal cord stimulation is considered a minor elective procedure. The inherent goal is to provide safe, reliable, effective treatment with mitigation of known potential risk of adverse events. Areas Covered: This is a comprehensive literature review evaluating the most prevalent complications encountered with SCS implantation. Expert Opinion: SCS-related complications are uncommon. The authors offer clinical insight and feel the best practice is to have strategies employed to avoid complications, and we assist clinicians and surgeons in appropriately identifying and treating potential complications. There is a focus on appropriate patient selection, adherence to evidence-based guidelines and best practice recommendations.