Epidural Abscess Following a Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial: A Case Report

BACKGROUND: Spinal cord stimulators (SCS) are used in the management of numerous chronic pain conditions. Prior to implantation, SCS trials determine whether patients are candidates and would benefit from neuromodulation therapy. Complications associated with these trials have been previously loosely discussed in conjunction with permanent implantation outcomes. CASE REPORT: In this case report, we present a patient who developed an epidural abscess requiring emergent surgical intervention and inpatient management following a SCS trial. CONCLUSIONS: Complications associated with SCS implantation have been well-described, but literature delving into significant complications following short-term trials are uncommon and less specified. SCS trials can result in complications including epidural abscess and should be managed promptly and appropriately to prevent major patient comorbidities. KEY WORDS: Spinal cord stimulator, neuromodulation, complication, surgical site infection