What Is ReActiv8?
ReActiv8 is a neurostimulation system that treats chronic pain by sending gentle electrical impulses to nerves in the lumbar multifidus muscle. This muscle supports and stabilizes the spine. This device is an alternative to spinal cord stimulators, but helps regenerate function of a specific muscle as opposed to blocking nerve signals from reaching the brain.
What Does It Treat?
This device helps manage chronic lower back pain caused by weakness of the lumbar multifidus muscle, in some cases known as muscular atrophy.
How Does the Procedure Work?
A patient will lay on their stomach and receive local anesthesia to prevent them from feeling pain and discomfort. A small incision is made on the back and metal wires, also called leads, are fed through a catheter near the medial branch nerves. Another incision is made on the buttocks where the pulse generator is implanted. The leads and generator are connected.
The surgeon will make an incision in the buttocks, and the opposite end of the catheter is pulled out through this opening. The catheters are connected to the pulse device, and it is inserted into the opening in the buttocks. The surgeon will be closing the incisions, and the patient will be monitored in a separate room before official release. They are also asked to have a companion with them to drive them home since they may experience mild discomfort and limited mobility. However, they can resume normal activity within 24 hours.
Patients will stay in the recovery room to be monitored after the procedure, and another person will be required to drive them home. Initial discomfort and limited movement are normal, and will subside within 24 hours. Any activities that put strain on the spine should be avoided for up to 6 weeks after the procedure.
What Are the Risks?
This minimally-invasive procedure is considered to be low risk; however, the device can malfunction, or leads can move out of place. Additionally, all surgeries have risks such as infection or blood loss.
Benefits of ReActiv8
Nerve stimulators treat chronic pain at the source, and can remove the need for oral medications over time, plus patients can use a wireless remote to control how often electrical pulses are sent to the nerves.