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Liu L, Liang Z, Zhang L, Feng Z, Cao F, Zhang Y, Yang X, Zhang L, Wang J, Zhu Q. Corticothalamic input derived from corticospinal neurons contributes to chronic neuropathic pain after spinal cord injury. Exp Neurol 2024; 381:114923. [PMID: 39142366 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2024.114923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
Neuropathic pain is a significant and persistent issue for individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI), severely impacting their quality of life. While changes at the peripheral and spinal levels are known to contribute to SCI-related pain, whether and how supraspinal centers contribute to post SCI chronic neuropathic pain is poorly understood. Here, we first validated delayed development of chronic neuropathic pain in mice with moderate contusion SCI. To identify supraspinal regions involved in the pathology of neuropathic pain after SCI, we next performed an activity dependent genetic screening and identified multiple cortical and subcortical regions that were activated by innocuous tactile stimuli at a late stage following contusion SCI. Notably, chemogenetic inactivation of pain trapped neurons in the lateral thalamus alleviated neuropathic pain and reduced tactile stimuli evoked cortical overactivation. Retrograde tracing showed that contusion SCI led to enhanced corticothalamic axonal sprouting and over-activation of corticospinal neurons. Mechanistically, ablation or silencing of corticospinal neurons prevented the establishment or maintenance of chronic neuropathic pain following contusion SCI. These results highlighted a corticospinal-lateral thalamic feed-forward loop whose activation is required for the development and maintenance of chronic neuropathic pain after SCI. Our data thus shed lights into the central mechanisms underlying chronic neuropathic pain associated with SCI and the development of novel therapeutic avenues to treat refractory pain caused by traumatic brain or spinal cord injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Liu
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhihou Liang
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhou Feng
- Department of Rehabilitation, Southwest Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Fei Cao
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yunjian Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoman Yang
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lijie Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Qing Zhu
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
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Sun S, Yin J, Wei H, Zeng Y, Jia H, Jin Y. Long-Term Efficacy and Safety of High-Frequency Spinal Stimulation for Chronic Pain: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Clin J Pain 2024; 40:415-427. [PMID: 38595082 DOI: 10.1097/ajp.0000000000001215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of our meta-analysis was to systematically assess the enduring effectiveness and safety of high-frequency spinal stimulation (HF-SCS) in the management of chronic pain. METHODS We developed a comprehensive literature search strategy to identify clinical trials investigating the efficacy of high-frequency spinal stimulation for chronic pain. The search was conducted in multiple databases, including Web of Science, Cochrane, PubMed, and Embase, covering the period from 2004 to 2023. The inclusion and exclusion criteria established for this study were applied to screen the eligible literature by carefully reviewing abstracts and, when necessary, examining the full text of selected articles. To assess the quality of the included studies, we utilized the Risk of Bias assessment tool provided by the Cochrane Collaboration. The PRISMA method was followed for the selection of articles, and the quality of the articles was evaluated using the risk assessment table for bias provided by the Cochrane Collaboration. Meta-analysis of the selected studies was performed using Review Manager 5.4 and STATA 16.0. Effect sizes for continuous data were reported as mean differences (MD) or standardized mean differences (SMD), while categorical data were analyzed using relative risks (RR). RESULTS According to our predefined literature screening criteria, a total of seven English-language randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in the meta-analysis. The findings from the meta-analysis demonstrated that HF-SCS exhibited superior efficacy in the long-term treatment of chronic pain when compared with the control group (RR=2.44, 95% CI: 1.20-4.96, P =0.01). Furthermore, HF-SCS demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in the Oswestry Disability Index score (mean difference MD=3.77, 95% CI: 1.17-6.38, P =0.005). However, for pain assessment (standardized mean difference SMD=-0.59, 95% CI: -1.28 to 0.10, P =0.09), Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I) score (MD=0.11, 95% CI: -0.66 to 0.88, P =0.78 for 6 months; MD=0.02, 95% CI: -0.42 to 0.43, P =0.97 for 12 mo), Clinical Global Impression of Improvement (CGI-I) score (MD=-0.58, 95% CI: -1.62 to 0.43, P =0.27 for 6 mo; MD=-0.23, 95% CI: -0.94 to 0.48, P =0.52 for 12 mo), and occurrence of adverse effects (odds ratio [OR]=0.77, 95% CI: 0.23-2.59, P =0.67), HF-SCS did not show statistically sufficient effects compared with the control group. CONCLUSIONS The findings from our comprehensive review and meta-analysis offer encouraging data about the prolonged efficacy and safety of HF-SCS in chronic pain management on some but not all outcomes. Recognizing the constraints of the existing evidence is crucial. Additional clinical trials, meticulously planned and stringent, are essential to bolster the current body of evidence and reach more conclusive findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sisi Sun
- Department of Pain Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
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Sokal P, Palus D, Jabłońska M, Puk O, Kieronska-Siwak S. Spinal Cord Stimulation for Central Neuropathic Pain After Spinal Cord Injury: A Single-Center Case Series. J Pain Res 2024; 17:2029-2035. [PMID: 38881761 PMCID: PMC11177860 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s462587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Central neuropathic pain (CNP) following spinal cord injury (SCI) presents a formidable therapeutic challenge, affecting over 50% of the patients post-SCI. For those who experience CNP, conventional treatments often prove insufficient. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) emerges as a potential intervention for chronic pain after SCI that is unresponsive to pharmacotherapy and supportive measures. However, the efficacy of SCS in alleviating CNP is notably limited. The objective of our study was to evaluate novel stimulation paradigms in SCS for patients with severe CNP after SCI, based on our extensive experience. Patients and Methods From a pool of 112 patients treated with SCS for chronic neuropathic pain in the Department of Neurosurgery and Neurology, we selected eight individuals (4 males and 4 females) with CNP for our case series. Burst and high frequency SCS was applied. The assessment involved utilizing the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), the Neuropathic Pain Symptom Inventory (NPSI), and the EQ-5D quality of life scale before surgery and during a 12-month follow-up period. Results Over the course of the one-year follow-up, only two patients experienced satisfactory relief from pain, demonstrating the effectiveness of the stimulation. Moreover, high-frequency and burst SCS failed to show improvement in the remaining six patients. Conclusion Our findings suggest that, despite the incorporation of new stimulation paradigms such as burst stimulation and high-frequency stimulation, SCS does not exhibit significant effectiveness in treating neuropathic pain in patients after SCI. These findings highlight the ongoing challenge of treating CNP and emphasize the importance of investigating alternative therapeutic strategies for this group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paweł Sokal
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neurology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Collegium Medicum, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Bydgoszcz, 85-168, Poland
| | - Damian Palus
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neurology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Collegium Medicum, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Bydgoszcz, 85-168, Poland
| | - Magdalena Jabłońska
- Doctoral School Collegium Medicum Nicolaus Copernicus University, Bydgoszcz, 85-168, Poland
| | - Oskar Puk
- Doctoral School Collegium Medicum Nicolaus Copernicus University, Bydgoszcz, 85-168, Poland
| | - Sara Kieronska-Siwak
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neurology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Collegium Medicum, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Bydgoszcz, 85-168, Poland
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Rao Y, Li J, Qiao R, Luo J, Liu Y. Synergistic effects of tetramethylpyrazine and astragaloside IV on spinal cord injury via alteration of astrocyte A1/A2 polarization through the Sirt1-NF-κB pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 131:111686. [PMID: 38461631 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.111686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Reactive astrocytes are hallmarks of traumatic spinal cord injury (T-SCI) and are associated with neuropathic pain (NP). Mediating the functional phenotype of reactive astrocytes helps neural repair and ameliorates NP in T-SCI. Here, we aimed to explore the role of tetramethylpyrazine (TMPZ) and astragaloside IV (AGS-IV) in astrocyte polarization and the underlying molecular mechanism in T-SCI. METHODS Primary cultured astrocytes from mice were treated with LPS or conditioned medium from "M1" polarized microglia (M1-CM), followed by TMPZ and/or AGS-IV administration. The expression levels of "A1" astrocyte-specific markers (including C3, GBP2, Serping1, iNOS), "A2" astrocyte-specific markers (including S100a10 and PTX3), Sirt1 and NF-κB were detected via western blotting. TNF-α and IL-1β levels were detected via ELISA. RT-PCR was used to evaluate OIP5-AS1 and miR-34a expression. si-OIP5-AS1 or the Sirt1 inhibitor EX-527 was administered to astrocytes. A spinal cord injury (SCI) model was constructed in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. Alterations in astrocytic "A1/A2" polarization in the spinal cord tissues were evaluated. RESULTS LPS and M1-CM induced "A1" polarization of primary astrocytes. TMPZ and ASG IV could substantially reduce the expression of "A1"-related biomarkers but enhance "A2"-related biomarkers. OIP5-AS1 and Sirt1 levels were reduced in "A1"-polarized astrocytes, while miR-34a and p-NF-κB p65 were elevated. TMPZ and ASG IV enhanced OIP5-AS1 and Sirt1 levels and, in contrast, attenuated the changes in miR-34a and p-NF-κB p65 levels. Notably, the TMPZ and ASG IV combination had stronger effects on astrocyte polarization than the single treatment with TMPZ or ASG IV. OIP5-AS1 knockdown and Sirt1 inhibition both reversed the regulatory effects of TMPZ and ASG IV in astrocytic polarization. According to the in vivo experiments, the expression of "A1"-associated markers was enhanced in the spinal cords of SCI rats. The TMPZ and ASG IV combination reduced astrocytic "A1" polarization and enhanced astrocytic "A2" polarization. The expression of lncRNA OIP5-AS1 and Sirt1 was enhanced by TMPZ and ASG IV, while that of miR-34a and p-NF-κB p65 was inhibited. CONCLUSION The combination of TMPZ and ASG IV can ameliorate dysregulated astrocytic polarization induced by spinal cord injury by affecting the lncRNA OIP5-AS1-Sirt1-NF-κB pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaojian Rao
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China.
| | - Junjie Li
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China
| | - Ruofei Qiao
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China
| | - Jinxin Luo
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China
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Lee CL, ShakerKhavidaki S, Sitthinamsuwan B, Jirachaipitak S, Srirabheebhat P. Retrograde Epidural Spinal Cord Stimulation for the Treatment of Intractable Neuropathic Pain Following Spinal Cord and Cauda Equina Injuries: A Case Report and Literature Review. Asian J Neurosurg 2024; 19:73-78. [PMID: 38751387 PMCID: PMC11093640 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1779338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) offers an alternative treatment for refractory pain resulting from various etiologies. Generally, SCS electrodes are inserted in an anterograde fashion, moving from caudal to rostral direction. However, there are instances where anterograde placement is unfeasible due to technical limitations. We present the use of retrograde surgical electrode placement in SCS for a patient with extensive epidural fibrosis at the site intended for electrode insertion. A 48-year-old female suffering from refractory neuropathic pain caused from injuries to the conus medullaris and cauda equina opted for SCS. During the SCS trial procedure, challenges emerged when attempting percutaneous electrode insertion at the site of a prior T12 laminectomy. However, the trial stimulation resulted in significant pain relief. For the permanent placement of the stimulator, utilizing a surgical electrode centered at T11 vertebral level, a considerable amount of epidural fibrosis was encountered at the entry of the spine, particularly at the T12 vertebral level. To avoid dural injury and ensure accurate electrode positioning, a retrograde technique for surgical electrode was employed via partial laminectomies at the T9-T10 level. The final electrode positioning was in accordance with the preoperative plan, well-centered at the T11 vertebral level. The patient experienced sustained relief from neuropathic pain over the long term. Retrograde epidural SCS is a suitable option for cases characterized by extensive epidural fibrosis resulting from a previous spinal surgery or when the anterograde placement of the electrode is unattainable due to aberrant vertebral anatomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Lin Lee
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Neurosurgery, Penang General Hospital, Pulau Penang, Malaysia
| | - SeyedMilad ShakerKhavidaki
- Department of Biomedical Science (International Program), Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Excellent Center for Drug Discovery (ECDD), Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Bunpot Sitthinamsuwan
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Siriraj Pain Management Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sukunya Jirachaipitak
- Siriraj Pain Management Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Prajak Srirabheebhat
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Gong C, Zhong W, Zhu C, Chen B, Guo J. Research Trends and Hotspots of Neuromodulation in Neuropathic Pain: A Bibliometric Analysis. World Neurosurg 2023; 180:155-162.e2. [PMID: 37380050 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2023.06.090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuropathic pain (NeuP), the result of a lesion or disease of the somatosensory nervous system, is tricky to cure clinically. Mounting researches reveal that neuromodulation can safely and effectively ameliorate NeuP. The number of publications associated with neuromodulation and NeuP increases with time. However, bibliometric analysis on the field is rare. The present study aims to analyze trends and topics in neuromodulation and NeuP research by using a bibliometric method. METHODS This study systematically collected the relevant publications on the Science Citation Index Expanded of Web of Science from January 1994 to January 17, 2023. CiteSpace software was used to draw and analyze corresponding visualization maps. RESULTS A total of 1404 publications were ultimately obtained under our specified inclusion criteria. The analysis showed that the focus of research on neuromodulation and NeuP had been developing steadily in recent years, with papers published in 58 countries/regions and 411 academic journals. The Journal of Neuromodulation and the author J.P. Lefaucheur published the most papers. The papers published in Harvard University and the United States contributed significantly. The cited keywords show that motor cortex stimulation, spinal cord stimulation, electrical stimulation, transcranial magnetic stimulation, and mechanism are the research hotspots in the field. CONCLUSIONS The bibliometric analysis showed that the number of publications on neuromodulation and NeuP are increasing rapidly, especially in the past 5 years. "Motor cortex stimulation," "electrical stimulation," "spinal cord stimulation," "transcranial magnetic stimulation" and "mechanism" catch the most attention among researchers in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chan Gong
- The Second School of Clinical Medical, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Weiquan Zhong
- The Second School of Clinical Medical, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chenchen Zhu
- The Second School of Clinical Medical, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Binglin Chen
- The Second School of Clinical Medical, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiabao Guo
- The Second School of Clinical Medical, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
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Zhou Z, Zhang P. Formononetin ameliorates the LPS-induced inflammatory response and apoptosis of neuronal cells via NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway. Funct Integr Genomics 2023; 23:321. [PMID: 37847432 DOI: 10.1007/s10142-023-01247-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of formononetin on cellular apoptosis and inflammatory responses following spinal cord injury (SCI), as well as the underlying mechanisms involved. In this study, PC12 cells were treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and different concentrations of Formononetin (FT) (50 μM, 100 μM, 200 μM). To confirm the effect of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)/NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) signaling pathways, the cells in the phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) group were treated with 0.1 μmol/L PMA (NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway activators). The lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) concentration and cell viability, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) fluorescence intensity, and cell apoptosis were determined using an LDH kit, Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry assays, respectively. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-16 (IL-6) expression levels were detected by quantitative ELISA assay. The expression of proteins related to the NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway was detected by western blotting. Our results showed that LPS increased LDH levels in PC12 cells, suggesting that inflammation caused PC12 cell damage. However, the PC12 cell damage was decreased by methylprednisolone. Formononetin promotes cell survival and proliferation, and prevents apoptosis in a concentration-dependent manner. Formononetin reduced the TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 levels in the LPS-treated model. Moreover, formononetin decreased the levels of p-p65 NF-κB and NLRP3 in PC12 cells. We conclude that formononetin ameliorated the inflammatory response and apoptosis in LPS-induced inflammatory injury in neuronal cells via the NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhijing Zhou
- Department of Orthopedic, Lianyungang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chaoyang Middle Road No. 160, Haizhou District, Lianyungang, 222004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic, Lianyungang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chaoyang Middle Road No. 160, Haizhou District, Lianyungang, 222004, Jiangsu, China.
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Du T, Ni B, Shu W, Ren Z, Guo S, Zhang X, Zhu H, Hu Y. Dorsal Root Entry Zone Lesioning Following Unresponsive Spinal Cord Stimulation for Post-Traumatic Neuropathic Pain. World Neurosurg 2023; 178:e300-e306. [PMID: 37473865 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2023.07.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) and dorsal root entry zone (DREZ) lesioning are important therapeutic options for intractable post-traumatic neuropathic pain (PNP). However, surgical choice is controversial due to the need to maximize pain relief and reduce complications. This study aims to retrospectively analyze the effect and complications of DREZ lesioning for patients with PNP who were unresponsive to SCS and provide a surgical reference. METHODS Demographic data and surgical characteristics of patients with PNP who underwent DREZ lesioning after an unresponsive SCS were reviewed. Long-term outcomes including numeric rating scale, global impression of change, and long-term complications were assessed. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to evaluate pain-free survival. RESULTS Of 19 patients with PNP, 8 had brachial plexus injury (BPI), 7 had spinal cord injury, 2 had cauda equina injury, 1 had intercostal nerve injury, and 1 had lumbosacral plexus injury. All patients were unresponsive or had a recurrence of pain after SCS, with an average pain-relief rate of 9.3%. After DREZ lesioning, the mean numeric rating scale scores significantly decreased from 7.6 ± 1.5 to 1.8 ± 1.7, with an average pain-relief rate of 75.3%. Seven patients (36.8%) experienced worsened neurologic dysfunction at the last follow-up. Patients with BPI had a significantly better outcome than other pathologies (P < 0.001) after DREZ lesioning. CONCLUSIONS DREZ lesioning is an effective alternative procedure to SCS for patients with PNP who have lost limb function. Particularly for those with BPI, DREZ lesioning has shown good efficacy and can be considered a preferred surgical option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Du
- Beijing Institute of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Bing Ni
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Shu
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiwei Ren
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Song Guo
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohua Zhang
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hongwei Zhu
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yongsheng Hu
- Beijing Institute of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China; Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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Matter L, Harland B, Raos B, Svirskis D, Asplund M. Generation of direct current electrical fields as regenerative therapy for spinal cord injury: A review. APL Bioeng 2023; 7:031505. [PMID: 37736015 PMCID: PMC10511262 DOI: 10.1063/5.0152669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Electrical stimulation (ES) shows promise as a therapy to promote recovery and regeneration after spinal cord injury. ES therapy establishes beneficial electric fields (EFs) and has been investigated in numerous studies, which date back nearly a century. In this review, we discuss the various engineering approaches available to generate regenerative EFs through direct current electrical stimulation and very low frequency electrical stimulation. We highlight the electrode-tissue interface, which is important for the appropriate choice of electrode material and stimulator circuitry. We discuss how to best estimate and control the generated field, which is an important measure for comparability of studies. Finally, we assess the methods used in these studies to measure functional recovery after the injury and treatment. This work reviews studies in the field of ES therapy with the goal of supporting decisions regarding best stimulation strategy and recovery assessment for future work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Matter
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed:
| | - Bruce Harland
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Auckland, NZ 1023 Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Brad Raos
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Auckland, NZ 1023 Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Darren Svirskis
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Auckland, NZ 1023 Auckland, New Zealand
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Biktimirov A, Bryukhovetskiy I, Sharma A, Sharma HS. Neuromodulation and quality of life for patient with spasticity after spinal cord injury. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 172:79-99. [PMID: 37833019 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2023.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Spasticity develops in 80% of spinal cord injury cases and negatively affects the patents' quality of life. The most common method of surgical treatment for severe spasticity is a long-term intrathecal baclofen therapy (ITB). Long-term spinal cord stimulation is another possible treatment technique. This paper aims to evaluate the changes in quality of life for patients with spasticity who have been treated with neuromodulation (SCS or ITB) in 12 months after the surgery, as well to compare the changes in quality of life for patients who have been treated with spinal cord stimulation and those who received long-term intrathecal baclofen therapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS The influence of spasticity, experienced by the patients with a spinal cord injury, on their quality of life was analyzed before the surgery and 12 months after it. The severity of the spinal cord damage was determined with the scale of the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA); spasticity was evaluated with the modified Ashworth scale, Penn Spasm Frequency Scale; pain levels were determined with visual analogue scale (VAS), anxiety and depression levels - with HADS. Functional activity of the patients was evaluated with the help of the Functional Independence Measure (FIM). RESULTS The treatment results for 33 patients (25 men and 8 women), aged from 18 to 62, are presented. After the trial stimulation, the patients were randomly assigned to either SCS or ITB group (18 and 15 people respectively). The decrease of spasticity in both experimental groups caused lower levels of pain, less functional dependency on other people, lower stress and depression rates and, as a consequence, better quality of life and social adaptation. The obtained results for SCS and ITB groups are statistically similar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artur Biktimirov
- Department of Neurosurgery, Far Eastern Federal University, Medical Center, Vladivostok, Russia.
| | - Igor Bryukhovetskiy
- Department of Fundamental Medicine, Far Eastern Federal University, School of Biomedicine, Vladivostok, Russia
| | - Aruna Sharma
- International Experimental Central Nervous System Injury & Repair (IECNSIR), Dept. of Surgical Sciences, Anesthesiology & Intensive Care Medicine, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Hari Shanker Sharma
- International Experimental Central Nervous System Injury & Repair (IECNSIR), Dept. of Surgical Sciences, Anesthesiology & Intensive Care Medicine, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Kuo CC, Tsai ST, Huang XL, Chen YC. Potential benefits of spinal cord stimulation treatment on quality of life for paralyzed patients with spinal cord injury. Tzu Chi Med J 2023. [DOI: 10.4103/tcmj.tcmj_102_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
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12
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Review of the Treatments for Central Neuropathic Pain. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12121727. [PMID: 36552186 PMCID: PMC9775950 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12121727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Central neuropathic pain (CNP) affects millions worldwide, with an estimated prevalence of around 10% globally. Although there are a wide variety of treatment options available, due to the complex and multidimensional nature in which CNP arises and presents symptomatically, many patients still experience painful symptoms. Pharmaceutical, surgical, non-invasive, cognitive and combination treatment options offer a generalized starting point for alleviating symptoms; however, a more customized approach may provide greater benefit. Here, we comment on the current treatment options that exist for CNP and further suggest the need for additional research regarding the use of biomarkers to help individualize treatment options for patients.
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13
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Noordhof RK, Vinke S, Kurt E. Spinal cord stimulation in patients suffering from chronic pain after surgery for spinal intradural tumors: A case report and literature summary. Pain Pract 2022; 22:746-752. [PMID: 36004480 PMCID: PMC9804809 DOI: 10.1111/papr.13156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of pain after treatment of a spinal intradural tumor is remarkably high, approximately up to 40% of the patients suffer from central neuropathic pain. Publications on spinal cord stimulation (SCS) and its effect on pain caused by intradural spinal tumors are rare. We discuss the case of a patient suffering from chronic pain after removal of a Th7 level meningioma who was successfully treated with SCS and give an overview of the literature. METHODS MEDLINE database was searched for neuropathic pain and intradural tumors. RESULTS The initial search identified 35 articles, including hand-searched manuscripts. Six articles were included for analysis. CASE REPORT A 57-year-old female suffers from neuropathic pain in both legs after surgical removal of a Th7 level intradural meningioma. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging shows no gross abnormalities, although she developed chronic pain in both legs. Pain in combination with side effects of analgesic intake are too disabling to have decent quality of life. A successful implantation of SCS is achieved at Th5 level as a treatment for the central neuropathic pain, and, at 36 months follow-up, there is significant pain relief and almost complete discontinuation of analgesics. DISCUSSION Central pain from spinal intradural tumors may have a different mechanism of origin than pain seen after an acute spinal cord injury (SCI). However, the basic principles of neuromodulation are the same in both etiologies, as for successful stimulation intact pathways in the spinal cord are necessary. The efficacy of SCS as treatment in intradural spinal tumors is rarely described as only a handful of case reports are published. Interestingly, the case reports show that stimulation both above and below the lesion can be effective. In patients with incomplete SCI or intradural tumor resection stimulation below the lesion could be considered and tried in a trial setting before definitive implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin K. Noordhof
- Department of NeurosurgeryRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | - Saman Vinke
- Department of NeurosurgeryRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | - Erkan Kurt
- Department of NeurosurgeryRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
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14
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FUKAYA N, TANEI T, NISHIMURA Y, HARA M, HATA N, NAGASHIMA Y, MAESAWA S, ARAKI Y, SAITO R. Spinal Cord Stimulation for Neuropathic Pain following a Spinal Cord Lesion with Past Spinal Surgical Histories Using a Paddle Lead Placed on the Rostral Side of the Lesion: Report of Three Cases. NMC Case Rep J 2022; 9:349-355. [PMID: 36381134 PMCID: PMC9633090 DOI: 10.2176/jns-nmc.2022-0218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord parenchymal lesions may induce intractable neuropathic pain. However, the efficacy of conventional spinal cord stimulation for the neuropathic pain following spinal cord lesions remains to be controversial. In this study, we present three cases of spinal cord stimulation using a paddle lead at the rostral side of the spinal lesion causing pain symptoms. Good pain reductions were achieved using conventional stimulation in one case and using differential target multiplexed stimulation in two cases. Case 1: A 55-year-old man presented with neuropathic pain affecting his bilateral upper extremities due to a traumatic cervical spinal cord injury. Conventional stimulation via a paddle-type electrode was able to reduce the pain from 8 to 4 via a visual analog scale. Case 2: A 67-year-old man had undergone three spinal surgeries. He presented with pain and numbness of bilateral lower extremities due to a spinal cord lesion by thoracic disc herniation. Differential target multiplexed stimulation via a paddle-type electrode achieved excellent pain reduction, that is, from 9 to 2 on the visual analog scale. Case 3: An 80-year-old man presented with pain in his bilateral upper extremities due to a cervical spinal cord lesion caused by compression and spinal canal stenosis. Posterior cervical decompression and paddle-type electrode placement were performed simultaneously. Differential target multiplexed stimulation was able to achieve excellent pain reduction, from 7 to 2 on the visual analog scale. Spinal cord stimulation using a paddle lead at the rostral side of the spinal lesion and differential target multiplexed stimulation may provide significant opportunities for patients with intractable neuropathic pain following spinal cord lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobuhisa FUKAYA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Takafumi TANEI
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Yusuke NISHIMURA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Masahito HARA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Aichi Medical University Hospital, Nagakute, Aichi, Japan
| | - Nobuhiro HATA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sakura General Hospital, Niwa, Aichi, Japan
| | - Yoshitaka NAGASHIMA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Satoshi MAESAWA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Yoshio ARAKI
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Ryuta SAITO
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
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15
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Bakr SM, Knight JA, Shlobin NA, Budnick H, Desai V, Hill H, Johnson SK, Williams AE, Tolley JA, Raskin JS. Spinal cord stimulation for treatment of chronic neuropathic pain in adolescent patients: a single-institution series, systematic review, and individual participant data meta-analysis. Neurosurg Focus 2022; 53:E13. [DOI: 10.3171/2022.7.focus22330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
Neuropathic pain is undertreated in children. Neurosurgical treatments of pediatric chronic pain are limited by the absence of both US Food and Drug Administration approval and pediatric-specific hardware, as well as weak referral patterns due to a lack of physician education. This study presents a single-institution retrospective case series of spinal cord stimulation (SCS) in children ≤ 19 years of age and a systematic review of SCS in children. The authors’ findings may further validate the role of SCS as an effective treatment modality for varied neuropathic pain syndromes found in pediatric patients.
METHODS
The study was a single-center, single-surgeon, retrospective case series of individuals treated between July 2017 and May 2022. The outcomes for pediatric patients with chronic neuropathic pain syndromes indicated by the multidisciplinary pain clinic for evaluation for SCS were cataloged. A systematic review and individual participant data (IPD) meta-analysis was performed for cases treated until May 2022, using PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus to characterize outcomes of children with neuropathic pain treated with SCS.
RESULTS
Twelve patients were evaluated and 9 were indicated for percutaneous or buried lead trials. Seven female and 2 male patients between the ages of 13 and 19 years were implanted with trial leads. Eight of 9 (89%) patients went on to receive permanent systems. The average trial length was 6 days, and the length of stay for both trial and implant was less than 1 day. Complication rates due to CSF leaks were 22% and 0% for trial and implant, respectively. Visual analog scale pain scores decreased from 9.2 to 2.9 (p = 0.0002) and the number of medications decreased from 4.9 to 2.1 (p = 0.0005). Functional status also improved for each patient. A systematic review identified 13 studies describing pediatric patients with SCS, including 12 providing IPD on 30 patients. In the IPD meta-analysis, pain was reduced in 16/16 (100%) of patients following surgery and in 25/26 (96.2%) at last follow-up. Medication use was decreased in 16/21 (76.2%), and functional outcomes were improved in 29/29 (100%). The complication rate was 5/30 (16.7%).
CONCLUSIONS
SCS effectively decreases pain and medication use for pediatric neuropathic pain syndromes. Patients also report improved functional status, including improved matriculation, gainful employment, and physical activity. There is minimal high-quality literature describing neuromodulation for pain in children. Neuromodulation should be considered earlier as a viable alternative to escalating use of multiple drugs and as a potential mechanism to address tolerance, dependence, and addiction in pediatric patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salma M. Bakr
- Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - James A. Knight
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Nathan A. Shlobin
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital, Chicago
- Department of Neurosurgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Hailey Budnick
- Section of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Riley Hospital for Children, Indiana University School of Medicine Department of Neurological Surgery, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Virendra Desai
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Oklahoma School of Medicine, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Haley Hill
- Section of Neurodiagnostics, Riley Hospital for Children, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis
| | - Sarah K. Johnson
- Section of Physical Therapy, Riley Hospital for Children, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis
| | - Amy E. Williams
- Department of Psychiatry, Riley Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Clinic, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indiana University Health, Indianapolis; and
| | - James A. Tolley
- Section of Pediatric Anesthesia, Department of Pediatrics, Riley Hospital for Children, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Jeffrey S. Raskin
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital, Chicago
- Department of Neurosurgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
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16
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Karri J, Doan J, Vangeison C, Catalanotto M, Nagpal AS, Li S. Emerging Evidence for Intrathecal Management of Neuropathic Pain Following Spinal Cord Injury. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2022; 3:933422. [PMID: 35965596 PMCID: PMC9371595 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2022.933422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A high prevalence of patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) suffer from chronic neuropathic pain. Unfortunately, the precise pathophysiological mechanisms underlying this phenomenon have yet to be clearly elucidated and targeted treatments are largely lacking. As an unfortunate consequence, neuropathic pain in the population with SCI is refractory to standard of care treatments and represents a significant contributor to morbidity and suffering. In recent years, advances from SCI-specific animal studies and translational models have furthered our understanding of the neuronal excitability, glial dysregulation, and chronic inflammation processes that facilitate neuropathic pain. These developments have served advantageously to facilitate exploration into the use of neuromodulation as a treatment modality. The use of intrathecal drug delivery (IDD), with novel pharmacotherapies, to treat chronic neuropathic pain has gained particular attention in both pre-clinical and clinical contexts. In this evidence-based narrative review, we provide a comprehensive exploration into the emerging evidence for the pathogenesis of neuropathic pain following SCI, the evidence basis for IDD as a therapeutic strategy, and novel pharmacologics across impactful animal and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay Karri
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- *Correspondence: Jay Karri
| | - James Doan
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System—West Roxbury Division, Spinal Cord Injury Service, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Christian Vangeison
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Marissa Catalanotto
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Ameet S. Nagpal
- Department of Orthopaedics and Physical Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Sheng Li
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas HSC at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
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17
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Steele AG, Manson GA, Horner PJ, Sayenko DG, Contreras-Vidal JL. Effects of transcutaneous spinal stimulation on spatiotemporal cortical activation patterns: A proof-of-concept EEG study. J Neural Eng 2022; 19. [PMID: 35732141 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/ac7b4b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (TSS) has been shown to be a promising non-invasive alternative to epidural spinal cord stimulation (ESS) for improving outcomes of people with spinal cord injury (SCI). However, studies on the effects of TSS on cortical activation are limited. Our objectives were to evaluate the spatiotemporal effects of TSS on brain activity, and determine changes in functional connectivity under several different stimulation conditions. As a control, we also assessed the effects of functional electrical stimulation (FES) on cortical activity. APPROACH Non-invasive scalp electroencephalography (EEG) was recorded during TSS or FES while five neurologically intact participants performed one of three lower-limb tasks while in the supine position: (1) A no contraction control task, (2) a rhythmic contraction task, or (3) a tonic contraction task. After EEG denoising and segmentation, independent components were clustered across subjects to characterize sensorimotor networks in the time and frequency domains. Independent components of the event related potentials (ERPs) were calculated for each cluster and condition. Next, a Generalized Partial Directed Coherence (gPDC) analysis was performed on each cluster to compare the functional connectivity between conditions and tasks. RESULTS Independent Component analysis of EEG during TSS resulted in three clusters identified at Brodmann areas (BA) 9, BA 6, and BA 4, which are areas associated with working memory, planning, and movement control. Lastly, we found significant (p < 0.05, adjusted for multiple comparisons) increases and decreases in functional connectivity of clusters during TSS, but not during FES when compared to the no stimulation conditions. SIGNIFICANCE The findings from this study provide evidence of how TSS recruits cortical networks during tonic and rhythmic lower limb movements. These results have implications for the development of spinal cord-based computer interfaces, and the design of neural stimulation devices for the treatment of pain and sensorimotor deficit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander G Steele
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, 6670 Bertner Ave, Houston, Texas, 77030-2707, UNITED STATES
| | - Gerome A Manson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, 6670 Bertner Ave, Houston, Texas, 77030-2707, UNITED STATES
| | - Philip J Horner
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, 6670 Bertner Ave, Houston, Texas, 77030-2707, UNITED STATES
| | - Dimitry G Sayenko
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, 6670 Bertner Ave, Houston, Texas, 77030-2707, UNITED STATES
| | - Jose L Contreras-Vidal
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Houston, N308 Engineering Building I, Houston, Texas, 77204-4005, UNITED STATES
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18
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Tringides CM, Mooney DJ. Materials for Implantable Surface Electrode Arrays: Current Status and Future Directions. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2107207. [PMID: 34716730 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202107207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Surface electrode arrays are mainly fabricated from rigid or elastic materials, and precisely manipulated ductile metal films, which offer limited stretchability. However, the living tissues to which they are applied are nonlinear viscoelastic materials, which can undergo significant mechanical deformation in dynamic biological environments. Further, the same arrays and compositions are often repurposed for vastly different tissues rather than optimizing the materials and mechanical properties of the implant for the target application. By first characterizing the desired biological environment, and then designing a technology for a particular organ, surface electrode arrays may be more conformable, and offer better interfaces to tissues while causing less damage. Here, the various materials used in each component of a surface electrode array are first reviewed, and then electrically active implants in three specific biological systems, the nervous system, the muscular system, and skin, are described. Finally, the fabrication of next-generation surface arrays that overcome current limitations is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina M Tringides
- Harvard Program in Biophysics, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
- Harvard-MIT Division in Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| | - David J Mooney
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
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19
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Abstract
This review provides a concise outline of the advances made in the care of patients and to the quality of life after a traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) over the last century. Despite these improvements reversal of the neurological injury is not yet possible. Instead, current treatment is limited to providing symptomatic relief, avoiding secondary insults and preventing additional sequelae. However, with an ever-advancing technology and deeper understanding of the damaged spinal cord, this appears increasingly conceivable. A brief synopsis of the most prominent challenges facing both clinicians and research scientists in developing functional treatments for a progressively complex injury are presented. Moreover, the multiple mechanisms by which damage propagates many months after the original injury requires a multifaceted approach to ameliorate the human spinal cord. We discuss potential methods to protect the spinal cord from damage, and to manipulate the inherent inhibition of the spinal cord to regeneration and repair. Although acute and chronic SCI share common final pathways resulting in cell death and neurological deficits, the underlying putative mechanisms of chronic SCI and the treatments are not covered in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stuart Stokes
- Spinal Unit, Department of Neurosurgery, Hull Royal Infirmary, Hull, UK
| | - Martin Drozda
- Spinal Unit, Department of Neurosurgery, Hull Royal Infirmary, Hull, UK
| | - Christopher Lee
- Spinal Unit, Department of Neurosurgery, Hull Royal Infirmary, Hull, UK
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20
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Su X, Zhou M, Di L, Chen J, Zhai Z, Liang J, Li L, Li H, Chai X. The Visual Cortical Responses to Sinusoidal Transcorneal Electrical Stimulation. Brain Res 2022; 1785:147875. [PMID: 35271821 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2022.147875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Retinal stimulation has become a widely utilized approach to restore visual function for individuals with retinal degenerative diseases. Although the rectangular electrical pulse is the primary stimulus waveform used in retinal neuromodulation, it remains unclear whether alternate waveforms may be more effective. Here, we used the optical intrinsic signal imaging system to assess the responses of cats' visual cortex to sinusoidal electrical stimulation through contact lens electrode, analyzing the response to various stimulus parameters (frequency, intensity, pulse width). A comparison between sinusoidal and rectangular stimulus waveform was also investigated. The results indicated that the optimal stimulation frequency for sinusoidal electrical stimulation was approximately 20 Hz, supporting the hypothesis that low-frequency electrostimulation induces more responsiveness in retinal neurons than high-frequency electrostimulation in case of sinusoidal stimulation. We also demonstrated that for low-frequency retinal neuromodulation, sinusoidal pulses are more effective than rectangular ones. In addition, we found that compared to current intensity, the effect of the sinusoidal pulse width on cortical responses was more prominent. These results suggested that sinusoidal electrical stimulation may provide a promising strategy for improved retinal neuromodulation in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofan Su
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Meixuan Zhou
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Liqing Di
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianpin Chen
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenzhen Zhai
- The Network & Information Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Junling Liang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Liming Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Heng Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinyu Chai
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
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21
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Gharooni AA, Kwon BK, Fehlings MG, Boerger TF, Rodrigues-Pinto R, Koljonen PA, Kurpad SN, Harrop JS, Aarabi B, Rahimi-Movaghar V, Wilson JR, Davies BM, Kotter MRN, Guest JD. Developing Novel Therapies for Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy [AO Spine RECODE-DCM Research Priority Number 7]: Opportunities From Restorative Neurobiology. Global Spine J 2022; 12:109S-121S. [PMID: 35174725 PMCID: PMC8859698 DOI: 10.1177/21925682211052920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Narrative review. OBJECTIVES To provide an overview of contemporary therapies for the James Lind Alliance priority setting partnership for degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) question: 'Can novel therapies, including stem-cell, gene, pharmacological and neuroprotective therapies, be identified to improve the health and wellbeing of people living with DCM and slow down disease progression?' METHODS A review of the literature was conducted to outline the pathophysiology of DCM and present contemporary therapies that may hold therapeutic value in 3 broad categories of neuroprotection, neuroregeneration, and neuromodulation. RESULTS Chronic spinal cord compression leads to ischaemia, neuroinflammation, demyelination, and neuronal loss. Surgical intervention may halt progression and improve symptoms, though the majority do not make a full recovery leading to lifelong disability. Neuroprotective agents disrupt deleterious secondary injury pathways, and one agent, Riluzole, has undergone Phase-III investigation in DCM. Although it did not show efficacy on the primary outcome modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association scale, it showed promising results in pain reduction. Regenerative approaches are in the early stage, with one agent, Ibudilast, currently in a phase-III investigation. Neuromodulation approaches aim to therapeutically alter the state of spinal cord excitation by electrical stimulation with a variety of approaches. Case studies using electrical neuromuscular and spinal cord stimulation have shown positive therapeutic utility. CONCLUSION There is limited research into interventions in the 3 broad areas of neuroprotection, neuroregeneration, and neuromodulation for DCM. Contemporary and novel therapies for DCM are now a top 10 priority, and whilst research in these areas is limited in DCM, it is hoped that this review will encourage research into this priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aref-Ali Gharooni
- Neurosurgery Unit, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Brian K. Kwon
- Vancouver Spine Surgery Institute, Department of Orthopedics, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Michael G. Fehlings
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Timothy F. Boerger
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Wauwatosa, WI, USA
| | - Ricardo Rodrigues-Pinto
- Spinal Unit (UVM), Department of Orthopaedics, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto - Hospital de Santo António, Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Porto, Portugal
| | - Paul Aarne Koljonen
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shekar N. Kurpad
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Wauwatosa, WI, USA
| | - James S. Harrop
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Bizhan Aarabi
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Vafa Rahimi-Movaghar
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sina Trauma and Surgery Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jefferson R. Wilson
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Benjamin M. Davies
- Neurosurgery Unit, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Mark R. N. Kotter
- Neurosurgery Unit, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - James D. Guest
- Department of Neurosurgery and The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
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22
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Zhao J, Roberts A, Wang Z, Savage J, Ji RR. Emerging Role of PD-1 in the Central Nervous System and Brain Diseases. Neurosci Bull 2021; 37:1188-1202. [PMID: 33877518 PMCID: PMC8353059 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-021-00683-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) is an immune checkpoint modulator and a major target of immunotherapy as anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibodies have demonstrated remarkable efficacy in cancer treatment. Accumulating evidence suggests an important role of PD-1 in the central nervous system (CNS). PD-1 has been implicated in CNS disorders such as brain tumors, Alzheimer's disease, ischemic stroke, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, cognitive function, and pain. PD-1 signaling suppresses the CNS immune response via resident microglia and infiltrating peripheral immune cells. Notably, PD-1 is also widely expressed in neurons and suppresses neuronal activity via downstream Src homology 2 domain-containing protein tyrosine phosphatase 1 and modulation of ion channel function. An improved understanding of PD-1 signaling in the cross-talk between glial cells, neurons, and peripheral immune cells in the CNS will shed light on immunomodulation, neuromodulation, and novel strategies for treating brain diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junli Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, 27710, USA.
| | - Alexus Roberts
- Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, 27710, USA
- Department of Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, 27710, USA
| | - Zilong Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, 27710, USA
| | - Justin Savage
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, 27710, USA
| | - Ru-Rong Ji
- Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, 27710, USA.
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, 27710, USA.
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, 27710, USA.
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23
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Sheetz T, Clemens JQ, Crescenze I. Neuroanatomy of Bladder Pain. CURRENT BLADDER DYSFUNCTION REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s11884-021-00629-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Yamada C, Maeda A, Matsushita K, Nakayama S, Shirozu K, Yamaura K. 1-kHz high-frequency spinal cord stimulation alleviates chronic refractory pain after spinal cord injury: a case report. JA Clin Rep 2021; 7:46. [PMID: 34101052 PMCID: PMC8187537 DOI: 10.1186/s40981-021-00451-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) frequently complain of intractable pain that is resistant to conservative treatments. Here, we report the successful application of 1-kHz high-frequency spinal cord stimulation (SCS) in a patient with refractory neuropathic pain secondary to SCI. Case presentation A 69-year-old male diagnosed with SCI (C4 American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale A) presented with severe at-level bilateral upper extremity neuropathic pain. Temporary improvement in his symptoms with a nerve block implied peripheral component involvement. The patient received SCS, and though the tip of the leads could not reach the cervical vertebrae, a 1-kHz frequency stimulus relieved the intractable pain. Conclusions SCI-related symptoms may include peripheral components; SCS may have a considerable effect on intractable pain. Even when the SCS electrode lead cannot be positioned in the target area, 1-kHz high-frequency SCS may still produce positive effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiaki Yamada
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Kyushu University Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Aiko Maeda
- Operating Rooms, Kyushu University Hospital, 3-1-1 Maedashi Higashi-ku, Fukuoka-city, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan.
| | - Katsuyuki Matsushita
- Operating Rooms, Kyushu University Hospital, 3-1-1 Maedashi Higashi-ku, Fukuoka-city, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Shoko Nakayama
- Operating Rooms, Kyushu University Hospital, 3-1-1 Maedashi Higashi-ku, Fukuoka-city, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Shirozu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Kyushu University Graduate School of Medicine, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Ken Yamaura
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Kyushu University Graduate School of Medicine, Fukuoka, Japan
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Cephalad extraspinal migration of percutaneously implanted spinal cord stimulator electrodes. INTERDISCIPLINARY NEUROSURGERY 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.inat.2020.101076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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Weng RX, Chen W, Tang JN, Sun Q, Li M, Xu X, Zhang PA, Zhang Y, Hu CY, Xu GY. Targeting spinal TRAF6 expression attenuates chronic visceral pain in adult rats with neonatal colonic inflammation. Mol Pain 2021; 16:1744806920918059. [PMID: 32299285 PMCID: PMC7168780 DOI: 10.1177/1744806920918059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Irritable bowel syndrome is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders. It is featured by abdominal pain in conjunction with altered bowel habits. However, the pathophysiology of the syndrome remains largely unknown. Tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) has been reported to be involved in neuropathic pain. The aim of this study was to investigate roles and mechanisms of TRAF6 in the chronic visceral hypersensitivity. Methods Visceral hypersensitivity was induced by neonatal colonic inflammation and was identified by colorectal distention. The protein level, RNA level, and cellular distribution of TRAF6 and its related molecules were detected with Western blot, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and immunofluorescence. In vitro spinal cord slice recording technique was performed to determine the synaptic transmission activities. Results Neonatal colonic inflammation rats displayed visceral hypersensitivity at the age of six weeks. The expression of TRAF6 was obviously upregulated in spinal cord dorsal horn of neonatal colonic inflammation rats at the age of six weeks. Immunofluorescence study showed that TRAF6 was dominantly expressed in spinal astrocytes. Intrathecal injection of TRAF6 small interfering RNA (siRNA) significantly reduced the amplitude of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents at the spinal dorsal horn level. Furthermore, knockdown of TRAF6 led to a significant downregulation of cystathionine β synthetase expression in the spinal dorsal horn of neonatal colonic inflammation rats. Importantly, intrathecal injection of TRAF6 siRNA remarkably alleviated visceral hypersensitivity of neonatal colonic inflammation rats. Conclusions Our results suggested that the upregulation of TRAF6 contributed to visceral pain hypersensitivity, which is likely mediated by regulating cystathionine β synthetase expression in the spinal dorsal horn. Our findings suggest that TRAF6 might act as a potential target for the treatment of chronic visceral pain in irritable bowel syndrome patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui-Xia Weng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, P.R. China
| | - Wei Chen
- People's Hospital of Suzhou National New & Hi-Tech Industrial Development Zone, Suzhou, P.R. China
| | - Jia-Ni Tang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, P.R. China
| | - Qian Sun
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, P.R. China
| | - Meng Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, P.R. China
| | - Xue Xu
- People's Hospital of Suzhou National New & Hi-Tech Industrial Development Zone, Suzhou, P.R. China
| | - Ping-An Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, P.R. China
| | - Ying Zhang
- People's Hospital of Suzhou National New & Hi-Tech Industrial Development Zone, Suzhou, P.R. China
| | - Chuang-Ying Hu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, P.R. China
| | - Guang-Yin Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, P.R. China
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Duan W, Huang Q, Yang F, He SQ, Guan Y. Spinal Cord Stimulation Attenuates Below-Level Mechanical Hypersensitivity in Rats After Thoracic Spinal Cord Injury. Neuromodulation 2021; 24:33-42. [PMID: 32770848 PMCID: PMC7855640 DOI: 10.1111/ner.13248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The burden of pain after spinal cord injury (SCI), which may occur above, at, or below injury level, is high worldwide. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is an important neuromodulation pain therapy, but its efficacy in SCI pain remains unclear. In SCI rats, we tested whether conventional SCS (50 Hz, 80% motor threshold [MoT]) and 1200 Hz, low-intensity SCS (40% MoT) inhibit hind paw mechanical hypersensitivity, and whether conventional SCS attenuates evoked responses of wide-dynamic range (WDR) neurons in lumbar spinal cord. MATERIALS AND METHODS Male rats underwent a moderate contusive injury at the T9 vertebral level. Six to eight weeks later, SCS or sham stimulation (120 min, n = 10) was delivered through epidural miniature electrodes placed at upper-lumbar spinal cord, with using a crossover design. Mechanical hypersensitivity was examined in awake rats by measuring paw withdrawal threshold (PWT) to stimulation with von Frey filaments. WDR neurons were recorded with in vivo electrophysiologic methods in a separate study of anesthetized rats. RESULTS Both conventional SCS and 1200 Hz SCS increased PWTs from prestimulation level in SCI rats, but the effects were modest and short-lived. Sham SCS was not effective. Conventional SCS (10 min) at an intensity that evokes the peak Aα/β waveform of sciatic compound action potential did not inhibit WDR neuronal responses (n = 19) to graded or repeated electrical stimulation that induces windup. CONCLUSIONS Conventional SCS and 1200 Hz, low-intensity SCS modestly attenuated below-level mechanical hypersensitivity after SCI. Inhibition of WDR neurons was not associated with pain inhibition from conventional SCS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanru Duan
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine,
Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, 21205, USA
| | - Qian Huang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine,
Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, 21205, USA
| | - Fei Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine,
Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, 21205, USA
| | - Shao-Qiu He
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine,
Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, 21205, USA
| | - Yun Guan
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine,
Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, 21205, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Johns Hopkins
University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, 21205, USA
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Kumar S, Khoury A, Searcy S. A Case Report on Spinal Cord Stimulation in an Atrophic Spinal Cord: What Exactly Are We Stimulating? Pain Pract 2020; 21:348-352. [PMID: 33010095 DOI: 10.1111/papr.12956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We present a patient with paraplegia secondary to anterior spinal cord infarct below T6, with subsequent development of chronic low-back and bilateral lower-extremity neuropathic pain with an atrophic cord. In this patient with reduced spinal cord mass and modified neuroanatomy, spinal cord stimulation was surprisingly very effective. OBJECTIVES The primary objective of this report is to describe a case in which a patient benefited from spinal cord stimulator therapy in a way that is not explained by the traditionally accepted mechanism of action. METHODS A spinal cord stimulator was implanted with two 16-contact leads placed in series starting at the top of T6. RESULTS He reported complete resolution of low-back pain and about 50% resolution of bilateral lower-extremity pain. CONCLUSION Traditionally accepted mechanisms of action of dorsal column stimulation and suppression of wide-dynamic-range neurons are unlikely to explain the relief obtained in our patient with an atrophic spinal cord. No single consensus has been reached on the primary mechanism through which spinal cord stimulation renders its therapeutic effects. Spinal cord stimulator therapy is promising, and the future direction of its study is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjeev Kumar
- Department of Anesthesiology/Pain Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, U.S.A
| | - Andrew Khoury
- Department of Anesthesiology/Pain Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, U.S.A
| | - Sam Searcy
- Department of Anesthesiology/Pain Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, U.S.A
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Reversion of Injured Adult Neurons to an Embryonic State by Grafts of Neural Progenitor Cells After Spinal Cord Injury. Neurosci Bull 2020; 37:271-274. [PMID: 32968955 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-020-00584-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
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30
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Shu B, He SQ, Guan Y. Spinal Cord Stimulation Enhances Microglial Activation in the Spinal Cord of Nerve-Injured Rats. Neurosci Bull 2020; 36:1441-1453. [PMID: 32889636 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-020-00568-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Microglia can modulate spinal nociceptive transmission. Yet, their role in spinal cord stimulation (SCS)-induced pain inhibition is unclear. Here, we examined how SCS affects microglial activation in the lumbar cord of rats with chronic constriction injury (CCI) of the sciatic nerve. Male rats received conventional SCS (50 Hz, 80% motor threshold, 180 min, 2 sessions/day) or sham stimulation on days 18-20 post-CCI. SCS transiently attenuated the mechanical hypersensitivity in the ipsilateral hind paw and increased OX-42 immunoreactivity in the bilateral dorsal horns. SCS also upregulated the mRNAs of M1-like markers, but not M2-like markers. Inducible NOS protein expression was increased, but brain-derived neurotrophic factor was decreased after SCS. Intrathecal minocycline (1 μg-100 μg), which inhibits microglial activation, dose-dependently attenuated the mechanical hypersensitivity. Pretreatment with low-dose minocycline (1 μg, 30 min) prolonged the SCS-induced pain inhibition. These findings suggest that conventional SCS may paradoxically increase spinal M1-like microglial activity and thereby compromise its own ability to inhibit pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Shu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.,Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Shao-Qiu He
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Yun Guan
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA. .,Department of Neurological Surgery, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
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Tao X, Lee MS, Donnelly CR, Ji RR. Neuromodulation, Specialized Proresolving Mediators, and Resolution of Pain. Neurotherapeutics 2020; 17:886-899. [PMID: 32696274 PMCID: PMC7609770 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-020-00892-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The current crises in opioid abuse and chronic pain call for the development of nonopioid and nonpharmacological therapeutics for pain relief. Neuromodulation-based approaches, such as spinal cord stimulation, dorsal root ganglion simulation, and nerve stimulation including vagus nerve stimulation, have shown efficacy in achieving pain control in preclinical and clinical studies. However, the mechanisms by which neuromodulation alleviates pain are not fully understood. Accumulating evidence suggests that neuromodulation regulates inflammation and neuroinflammation-a localized inflammation in peripheral nerves, dorsal root ganglia/trigeminal ganglia, and spinal cord/brain-through neuro-immune interactions. Specialized proresolving mediators (SPMs) such as resolvins, protectins, maresins, and lipoxins are lipid molecules produced during the resolution phase of inflammation and exhibit multiple beneficial effects in resolving inflammation in various animal models. Recent studies suggest that SPMs inhibit inflammatory pain, postoperative pain, neuropathic pain, and cancer pain in rodent models via immune, glial, and neuronal modulations. It is noteworthy that sham surgery is sufficient to elevate resolvin levels and may serve as a model of resolution. Interestingly, it has been shown that the vagus nerve produces SPMs and vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) induces SPM production in vitro. In this review, we discuss how neuromodulation such as VNS controls pain via immunomodulation and neuro-immune interactions and highlight possible involvement of SPMs. In particular, we demonstrate that VNS via auricular electroacupuncture effectively attenuates chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain. Furthermore, auricular stimulation is able to increase resolvin levels in mice. Thus, we propose that neuromodulation may control pain and inflammation/neuroinflammatioin via SPMs. Finally, we discuss key questions that remain unanswered in our understanding of how neuromodulation-based therapies provide short-term and long-term pain relief.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueshu Tao
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Michael S Lee
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Christopher R Donnelly
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Ru-Rong Ji
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
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Dombovy-Johnson ML, Hunt CL, Morrow MM, Lamer TJ, Pittelkow TP. Current Evidence Lacking to Guide Clinical Practice for Spinal Cord Stimulation in the Treatment of Neuropathic Pain in Spinal Cord Injury: A Review of the Literature and a Proposal for Future Study. Pain Pract 2020; 20:325-335. [PMID: 31691496 DOI: 10.1111/papr.12855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE Chronic pain is commonly reported in individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCIs), with recent prevalence reported as high as 80%. Uncontrolled pain is known to decrease quality of life, attenuate mood, and impact sleep. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) for the treatment of refractory pain was first used in the SCI population in 1972. To date there have been no randomized controlled trials examining the effect of SCS on neuropathic pain post-SCI. A literature review in 2009 identified 27 studies, the majority prior to 2000, that included at least 1 patient with SCI. Given the significant advancements in the field of SCS, this review examines the updated evidence of SCS for the treatment of neuropathic pain in individuals with SCI and provides guidance on future investigations. METHODS MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were searched. All published reports, case series, and clinical trials reviewing SCS for neuropathic pain that included at least 1 individual with SCI were included. RESULTS The initial search identified 376 reports, of which 22 met inclusion criteria, for a total of 69 patients. All reports were of very low quality. A majority of the reported patients were male, underwent tonic stimulation, and reportedly experienced improvement in pain and spasticity, with decreased use of pain medication. CONCLUSIONS The synthesized findings from primarily case studies support the safety of SCS in SCI with the suggestion of potential pain relief benefit; however, data from low-quality studies are insufficient for informing clinical practice. A well-designed, prospective clinical trial is proposed to further investigate this indication.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christine L Hunt
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, U.S.A
| | - Melissa M Morrow
- Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, U.S.A
| | - Tim J Lamer
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, U.S.A
| | - Thomas P Pittelkow
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, U.S.A
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Li G, Fan ZK, Gu GF, Jia ZQ, Zhang QQ, Dai JY, He SS. Epidural Spinal Cord Stimulation Promotes Motor Functional Recovery by Enhancing Oligodendrocyte Survival and Differentiation and by Protecting Myelin after Spinal Cord Injury in Rats. Neurosci Bull 2019; 36:372-384. [PMID: 31732865 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-019-00442-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Epidural spinal cord stimulation (ESCS) markedly improves motor and sensory function after spinal cord injury (SCI), but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. Here, we investigated whether ESCS affects oligodendrocyte differentiation and its cellular and molecular mechanisms in rats with SCI. ESCS improved hindlimb motor function at 7 days, 14 days, 21 days, and 28 days after SCI. ESCS also significantly increased the myelinated area at 28 days, and reduced the number of apoptotic cells in the spinal white matter at 7 days. SCI decreased the expression of 2',3'-cyclic-nucleotide 3'-phosphodiesterase (CNPase, an oligodendrocyte marker) at 7 days and that of myelin basic protein at 28 days. ESCS significantly upregulated these markers and increased the percentage of Sox2/CNPase/DAPI-positive cells (newly differentiated oligodendrocytes) at 7 days. Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein 4 (rhBMP4) markedly downregulated these factors after ESCS. Furthermore, ESCS significantly decreased BMP4 and p-Smad1/5/9 expression after SCI, and rhBMP4 reduced this effect of ESCS. These findings indicate that ESCS enhances the survival and differentiation of oligodendrocytes, protects myelin, and promotes motor functional recovery by inhibiting the BMP4-Smad1/5/9 signaling pathway after SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
- Spinal Pain Research Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Zhong-Kai Fan
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, 121001, China
| | - Guang-Fei Gu
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
- Spinal Pain Research Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Zhi-Qiang Jia
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471003, China
| | - Qiang-Qiang Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, 121001, China
| | - Jun-Yu Dai
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, 121001, China
| | - Shi-Sheng He
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China.
- Spinal Pain Research Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China.
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Xie H, Yin J, Duan Y, Wu H, Xia Y, Zhang Z. Bibliometric Analysis of Scientific Publications on Spinal Cord Stimulation in the Past Two Decades. World Neurosurg 2019; 131:e521-e529. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2019.07.216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2019] [Revised: 07/27/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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