University Orthopedics’ East Bay Surgery Center in East Providence, R.I., has become the first site in the state to implant a closed-loop spinal cord stimulator.
Shiqiang “Chris” Tian, MD, an interventional pain specialist at University Orthopedics, performed the outpatient procedure Oct. 27. The system is designed for patients with chronic spinal or neuropathic pain, including low back pain, sciatica and peripheral neuropathy, who no longer respond to conservative treatments, according to a Nov. 17 system news release.
Closed-loop stimulators differ from traditional devices in their real-time spinal cord feedback, which enables surgeons to dynamically adjust stimulation levels. The technology aims to prevent overstimulation and improve long-term pain relief, even during movement or posture changes.
University Orthopedics said the procedure advances access to neuromodulation therapy in the region.
