10-kHz Spinal Cord Stimulation Treatment for Painful Diabetic Neuropathy: Results from <i>Post-Hoc</i> Analysis of the SENZA-PPN Study

Abstract

<b>Aim:</b> Previous studies of 10 kHz spinal cord stimulation demonstrated its safety and efficacy for treatment of neuropathic pain of the trunk and/or limbs. This study analyzed data from a subset of subjects with painful diabetic neuropathy enrolled in a prospective, multicenter study of peripheral polyneuropathy with various etiologies. <b>Materials & methods:</b> Of the eight subjects that had permanent devices, seven attended the 12-month follow-up assessment. <b>Results & conclusion:</b> At 12 months, 6/7 subjects were treatment responders (≥50% pain relief) and had pain remission (visual analog scale ≤ 3.0 cm). Worsening of neurologic deficits was not reported in any subject. Instead, 5/7 subjects showed improvements in sensory testing and/or reflexes. These results support further investigation of 10 kHz spinal cord stimulation as a safe and effective treatment for intractable painful diabetic neuropathy.