While there were injury reports, neurosurgeon Joseph Christiano, MD, defended his use of the stimulators with News 4 Tucson.
Here are three insights:
1. Dr. Christiano told the news outlet he performs between 150 and 200 spinal cord stimulation procedures annually.
2. While the investigation highlighted dangers in the device, Dr. Christiano told patients not to worry. “Lookat where we get our devices and how that process occurs to get them from manufacturer to patient,” Dr. Christiano told News 4 Tucson. “On the other hand, it is also important to balance that with what is effective for patients and make sure the statistics are not over- or under-represented.”
3. The neurosurgeon reported 85 percent of the spinal cord stimulators he implants are successful. “The key there is we have to make sure we are selecting patients for the right reasons or for the right problems,” he told the news outlet.
More articles on spine:
6 spine & neurosurgeons on the move in November
Top 10 ‘Spine Review’ articles: Nov. 26-30
Dr. Michael Glover explains rise in endoscopic spine surgery
At the Becker's 23rd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference, taking place June 11-13 in Chicago, spine surgeons, orthopedic leaders and ASC executives will come together to explore minimally invasive techniques, ASC growth strategies and innovations shaping the future of outpatient spine care. Apply for complimentary registration now.
