Peripheral subcutaneous electrostimulation for control of intractable post-operative inguinal pain: A case report series

Objective. To present a novel treatment approach for intractable inguinal neuralgia utilizing percutaneous peripheral electrostimulation. Materials and Methods. We report results of peripheral electrostimulation in three patients who experienced onset of inguinal neuralgic pain in the immediate postoperative period following herniorrhaphy. In each case pain was refractory to medical management and caused significant functional impairment. These three patients were first percutaneously trialed and then implanted with dual octipolar peripheral nerve stimulators (Advanced Neuromodulation Systems, Piano, TX) in close proximity to the injured nerve. Results. All three patients responded very favorably (75-100% pain relief at three, 10, and 12 months postimplantation). There were no complications. All three tapered off their pain-related medication, dramatically increased their levels of activity, and discontinued pain- related medical visits. Both patients who were on disability due to inguinal pain have been able to return to full-time employment. Conclusion, These preliminary results suggest that the technique described is effective and safe, and may be cost-effective as well.