Neuromodulation in Abilene, Texas

Imaging

Live X-ray (fluoroscopy)

Comfort

Local numbing with sedation

Time

Trial 30–45 min · implant 60–90 min

Home

Same day, with a driver

What it is, and why it works.

What it is · An advanced treatment that uses gentle electrical impulses to modify how pain signals are transmitted and perceived by the nervous system. It is typically used when chronic pain persists despite conservative care, injections, or surgery.

Why it's effective · Neuromodulation targets pain signaling directly rather than masking symptoms, reducing pain and enhancing daily function without the necessity for continuous medication.

Treatment happens in two stages. The trial is a temporary five-to-seven-day period that lets you experience the relief of neurostimulation before committing to a permanent implant. Thin, flexible leads are placed near the spine, the dorsal root ganglion, or a targeted peripheral nerve under live X-ray, and connected to an external controller you wear on a belt while you go about your normal days.

If the trial succeeds, the permanent implant places the leads and a small battery, the implantable pulse generator, entirely under the skin. There are no external wires. The system is programmed to your pain pattern and controlled with a handheld programmer or a smartphone.

Three ways to place it

Before

• Hold NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen, meloxicam, aspirin) for 24 hours; blood thinners have longer holds that our office will set with you.
• If you are receiving sedation, nothing to eat or drink for six hours beforehand. Essential morning medications may be taken with a sip of water.
• Bring a responsible adult to drive you home.

Procedure day

• Trial: leads are placed under live X-ray with local numbing and mild sedation, connected to a small external controller, and you go home the same day. About 30 to 45 minutes.
• Implant: leads and the pulse generator are placed under the skin with sedation. About 60 to 90 minutes, outpatient.

Afterward

• During the trial, keep a daily log of pain scores and what you can do, and complete the online form each day. Keep the exit site dry (sponge baths only), keep lifting light, and avoid twisting and overhead reaching so the leads stay in place. You return in five to seven days for lead removal and to review the results.
• After the implant, rest for the first 24 to 48 hours and expect a bruised feeling around the battery pocket for several days. Shower after 48 hours; no baths or pools for seven days. Avoid lifting over 10 pounds, twisting, or reaching for about six weeks. You are seen at two weeks for an incision check and programming, and at two to three months to measure function.

Call us right away if you notice

• New or worsening leg weakness, numbness, or foot drop
• Sudden loss of bowel or bladder control
• Fever above 101.5°F, chills, or drainage at the site
• A severe headache that worsens when sitting or standing

Call or text 325-326-3433. In an emergency, call 911.

Where it happens

Most of our image-guided procedures are performed in our own procedure suite at 1925 Hospital Place. When a case calls for a hospital or surgery center, we arrange it and remain your physicians throughout. Your appointment paperwork tells you which facility and when to arrive.

Full preparation and discharge details are in the handout below and in the general procedure guide (PDF).