Spinal Cord Stimulation Treatment in India

A Spinal Cord Stimulation procedure manages chronic pain. It is often recommended for neuropathic pain unresponsive to conventional therapies. This method offers effective long-term relief and functional improvement.

Every year, India welcomes many international patients, including those seeking Spinal Cord Stimulation. Patients come from Ethiopia, Nigeria, UAE, Oman, and neighboring Asian regions. India is a preferred global destination for its experienced specialists, structured programs, and cost-effective care.

India excels in Spinal Cord Stimulation due to experienced specialists, advanced diagnostics, regulated protocols, and affordable care pathways.

1. Indications for Spinal Cord Stimulation

Spinal Cord Stimulation may be recommended for:

• Chronic back pain (Failed Back Surgery Syndrome).
• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS).
• Neuropathic pain (e.g., nerve injury, diabetic neuropathy).
• Pain unresponsive to medication.
• Ischemic limb pain.
• Previous treatment failures.

2. Types of Spinal Cord Stimulation in India

2.1 Conventional SCS

Delivers continuous, low-frequency electrical pulses to block pain. Effective for broad neuropathic pain.

2.2 High-Frequency SCS (HF10™ Therapy)

Uses higher frequency (10 kHz) pulses without paresthesia. Proven for back and leg pain relief.

2.3 Burst SCS

Delivers short, high-frequency bursts. Mimics natural nerve patterns, useful for specific pain types.

2.4 Advanced or Minimally Invasive Procedures

Modern devices offer automatic adjustments, remote programming. Minimally invasive techniques shorten recovery. Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) stimulation targets specific pain.

3. Pre-Treatment Evaluation

Before Spinal Cord Stimulation, a full evaluation is conducted:

3.1 Laboratory Testing

• CBC, kidney/liver function.
• Coagulation profile, electrolytes.

3.2 Imaging Studies

• X-ray, CT, or MRI of spine.

3.3 Functional Assessment

• Pain scores.
• Psychological evaluation, physical therapy.

3.4 Infection Screening

HIV, HBV, HCV, TB, other infections.

4. Spinal Cord Stimulation Procedure Overview

The procedure typically includes:

• Pre-operative planning, pain mapping.
• Anesthesia (local with sedation).
• Temporary trial lead placement.
• Patient trial period (3-7 days).
• Permanent system implantation.
• Leads connected to pulse generator.
• Vital parameters monitored.
• Incision closure.
• Transfer to recovery.

Exact steps depend on complexity.

5. Recovery & Post-Treatment Care

After Spinal Cord Stimulation, patients receive:

• Vital monitoring, pain management.
• Medication protocol.
• Device usage/programming guidance.
• Movement restrictions.
• Follow-up visits.
• Progress tests.

Recovery duration varies. Light activities resume quickly.

6. Risks & Complications

6.1 Early Complications

• Infection at incision.
• Bleeding, hematoma.
• Lead migration, fracture.
• Dural puncture.

6.2 Late Complications

• Device malfunction, battery issues.
• Persistent/inadequate pain relief.
• Allergic reaction.
• Medication-related concerns.

7. Success Rates of Spinal Cord Stimulation in India

Success varies by pain severity, procedure complexity, patient health. Many report significant pain reduction.

• 1-year outcome: 70% – 85% with 50%+ pain relief.
• 5-year outcome: 60% – 75% maintaining relief.
• Improved functional recovery for most.
• Lower complication rates in high-volume centres.

8. Cost of Spinal Cord Stimulation in Major Indian Cities (2025)

City-wise cost range for Spinal Cord Stimulation:

Delhi — ₹9,00,000 – ₹18,00,000
Mumbai — ₹9,50,000 – ₹19,00,000
Bangalore — ₹8,80,000 – ₹17,50,000
Chennai — ₹8,50,000 – ₹17,00,000
Hyderabad — ₹8,70,000 – ₹17,20,000
Kolkata — ₹8,00,000 – ₹16,50,000
Pune — ₹8,20,000 – ₹16,80,000
Gurgaon — ₹9,20,000 – ₹18,50,000

Costs vary by procedure type, hospital, specialist expertise. The cost of Spinal Cord Stimulation in India is significantly lower than Western countries.

9. India vs USA Cost Comparison

10. Condition-Wise Success & Treatment Options

11. India vs Global Cost Comparison (USD)

12. International Patient Services

• Specialist consultations.
• Remote report review.
• Personalized cost estimate.
• Medical visa support.
• Accommodation, travel help.
• Airport transfers.
• Interpreter support.
• Pre-treatment evaluation.
• Post-treatment follow-up.
• Digital medical records.

13. Required Documentation

• Identity proof, passport.
• Past medical reports.
• Latest lab, diagnostic images.
• Treatment consent forms.

14. Pre-Treatment Guidelines

• Complete evaluations.
• Avoid infections.
• Follow medication advice.
• Observe fasting rules.
• Disclose all current medications/allergies.

15. Post-Treatment Guidelines

• Follow prescribed medications.
• Attend follow-ups.
• Maintain incision hygiene.
• Follow dietary advice.
• Avoid strenuous activity.
• Monitor for warning signs.

16. Why India for Spinal Cord Stimulation?

• High-volume specialist centres.
• Internationally trained doctors.
• Advanced diagnostics, technology.
• Regulated treatment protocols.
• Higher Spinal Cord Stimulation success rate in India.
• Cost-effective medical care.

DivinHeal supports international patients in accessing reliable, well-guided and specialist-driven Spinal Cord Stimulation treatment in India through safe and structured medical pathways.