Quantitative Sensory Testing to Assessment Objective Changes by Spinal Cord Stimulation In-Patient with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

Abstract

The “complex regional pain syndrome” (CRPS) is characterized by continued pain, debilitating affliction, sensory abnormalities, vaso- and sudomotor disturbances as well as trophic changes. CRPS is often difficult to treat. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) as a measure to provide adequate pain relief, improve the quality of life and physical function has been employed for that purpose. The sensory profile of the patients with CRPS, including sensory signs: hyperalgesia, allodynia, or hypoesthesia may be linked with the damage and surviving afferent nerve fibres, ectopic impulse generation, peripheral and central sensitization. For comprehensive assessing, the sensory profiles of a patient and results of treatment were verified with quantitative sensory testing (QST) in accordance with the protocol of the German Research Network on Neuropathic Pain (DFNS).