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Abstract
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Background and Aims Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) neurons play a vital role in transmitting pain signals to the central nervous system, acting as a filter for afferent signals to the dorsal horn. Dorsal root ganglion stimulation (DRG-S) is a specialized neuromodulation therapy that targets the dorsal root ganglion, offering analgesic benefits for various chronic pain conditions. In recent years, DRG-S has gained popularity as a treatment option for lower extremity neuropathic pain syndromes.
Methods Case Report: This case study involves a 30-year-old male with a history of neuropathic symptoms who experienced moderate to severe pain following low-grade myxofibrosarcoma resection in his left thigh at the age of 13. Despite undergoing several interventional procedures such as peripheral nerve blocks, spinal cord stimulation (SCS), and peripheral nerve stimulation implants, he achieved unsatisfactory results. Consequently, the patient was scheduled for a ganglion root stimulation implant.
Results DRG-S enables precise targeting of nerve fibers that innervate specific painful regions without indiscriminately activating uninvolved dermatomes. With a thin layer of cerebrospinal fluid surrounding it, the DRG allows for the achievement of stimulation with lower electrical currents and is less affected by positional changes. The mechanism of analgesia through DRG-S involves reversing the central pathophysiological changes within the DRG neurons that perpetuate and amplify neuropathic pain.
DGR XRay
Conclusions Chronic neuropathic pain is a prevalent condition that significantly impacts quality of life. When other neuromodulatory therapies have failed, DRG-S can offer potential advantages for managing lower extremity neuropathic pain syndromes. References: Adv Ther (2022) 39:4440–4473