Spinal Cord Stimulator Evaluations
If you or a family member have been referred for psychological testing or pre-surgical psychological clearance, you probably have some questions about what to expect. The following information is related to psychological assessments for spinal cord stimulator surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why am I being referred for a psychological evaluation before spinal cord stimulation surgery?
For some patients, the stimulator can cause an increase in worry and anxiety. Unfortunately, this stress can reduce the effectiveness of the simulator placement. In part, the pre-surgical clearance evaluation helps your physician prepare you for the procedure and make recommendations to help you adjust to any changes. Moreover, most insurance companies require pre-surgical psychological clearance for SCS implantation.
What can I expect?
On average, the examination consists of a discussion between you and the examining psychologist. This conversation centers around obtaining a detailed history. For example, information covered includes medical, psychological, social, and family history. In addition to information about previous alcohol or substance use.
You will also fill out a few questionnaires about how you manage your pain, your current mood, and your treatment goals. The conversation remains confidential between you, the examining psychologist, and your medical team.
What if I disclose a history of depression or anxiety? Will that stop me from having the stimulator placement?
No. Chronic pain patients are much more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety as compared to the general public. It is typical and expected that people living with chronic pain will have high levels of irritability, anxiety, and depression.
Also, pain relief often helps decrease depression and anxiety. If you are struggling with depression and/or anxiety, the pre-surgical clearance evaluation will offer recommendations to help you manage your feelings and regulate your mood.
Can the psychologist make other recommendations besides the stimulator?
Yes, we often do. The psychologist is a valuable member of your pain management team. Many people find that alternative or complementary treatments, such as biofeedback, psychotherapy, and mindfulness approaches, can help manage chronic pain. At Dyer Psychology we offer a wide range of therapeutic options for managing pain.
How long does the evaluation take?
Typically, an evaluation takes one to two hours and can be done in one appointment. Following the evaluation, the psychologist writes up a detailed report, provides feedback, and shares the results with you and your surgeon.
Are most people cleared to proceed with spinal cord stimulation?
Yes, most people are cleared to have the trial placement of the stimulator. However, a small number of people are not. Those who are experiencing hallucinations, delusions, and cannot understand and follow post-operational directions may not be good candidates for this type of procedure. Instead, complementary and holistic interventions such as outpatient psychotherapy or biofeedback may be a more effective option for pain management.
What are the specific steps involved in an evaluation for spinal cord stimulator surgery?
•Clinical interview with the psychologist
•Completion of psychological questionnaires, personality tests, and cognitive screening evaluation
•Medical records review
•The psychologist will write a detailed report and provide you with direct feedback
•This report will be sent to the referring physician
•The report will include any recommended treatments that would help to improve the outcome of the surgical procedure.