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The Journal of Headache and Pain

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Open Access 01-12-2016 | Short report

Safety and efficacy of cervical 10 kHz spinal cord stimulation in chronic refractory primary headaches: a retrospective case series

Authors: Giorgio Lambru, Michele Trimboli, Stefano Palmisani, Thomas Smith, Adnan Al-Kaisy

Published in: The Journal of Headache and Pain | Issue 1/2015

Abstract

Background

Paresthesia-free cervical 10 kHz spinal cord stimulation (HF10 SCS) may constitute a novel treatment modality for headache disorders, when pharmacological approaches fail. We report the results of a retrospective analysis assessing the long-term safety, tolerability and efficacy of HF10 SCS in a group of patients with chronic refractory primary headache disorders.

Findings

Four patients with chronic migraine (CM), two with chronic SUNA (Short-lasting Unilateral Neuralgiform headache attacks with Autonomic symptoms) and one with chronic cluster headache (CCH) refractory to medical treatments, were implanted with cervical HF10 SCS. Pre- and post-implantation data were collected from the medical notes and from headache charts. At an average follow-up of 28 months (range: 12–42 months) we observed an improvement of at least 50 % in headache frequency and/or intensity in all CM patients. One SUNA patient became pain free and the other reported at least 50 % improvement in attacks frequency an duration. The CCH patient reported a significant reduction in CH attacks duration. Two patients underwent a surgical revision due to lead migration.

Conclusions

Paresthesia-free high cervical HF10 SCS appears to be a long-term safe and likely effective therapeutic approach for patients with chronic refractory primary headache disorders. These results warrant further prospective studies in larger series of patients.

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Title: Safety and efficacy of cervical 10 kHz spinal cord stimulation in chronic refractory primary headaches: a retrospective case series
Authors: Giorgio Lambru
Michele Trimboli
Stefano Palmisani
Thomas Smith
Adnan Al-Kaisy
Publication date: 01-12-2016
Publisher: Springer Milan
Published in: The Journal of Headache and Pain / Issue 1/2015
Print ISSN: 1129-2369
Electronic ISSN: 1129-2377
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-016-0657-2

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Safety and efficacy of cervical 10 kHz spinal cord stimulation in chronic refractory primary headaches: a retrospective case series

Abstract

Background

Findings

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Findings

Conclusions

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