Dorsal Root Ganglion Stimulation as Treatment for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome of the Foot Refractory to Spinal Cord Stimulation: A Case Report

The ACCURATE study demonstrated non-inferiority and superiority of dorsal root ganglion stimulation (DRGS) over traditional spinal cord stimulation (t-SCS) in patients with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). Yet, its efficacy in patients who had previously failed SCS therapy is unknown. A mid-60-year-old-male patient with right foot CRPS previously implanted with SCS system experienced relapse in pain. The patient was offered DRGS at right L5/S1 with 90% pain reduction. The patient subsequently proceeded to implant with continued pain relief. This case report demonstrates the effectiveness of DRGS in a patient who previously failed SCS. DRGS can be a viable salvage treatment option in the face of tolerance or loss of efficacy with SCS.