953 - Evaluating Pain Scores and Other Factors in Patients with Nerve Repair Surgery Before and After PNS Placement: A Retrospective Chart Review

The aim of our study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) in treating neuropathic pain in patients who have undergone nerve repair surgery. 

This retrospective chart review analyzed fourteen patients aged 18 and above who underwent PNS implantation post-nerve repair surgery. Those under 18 years of age, pregnant, prisoners, or those with PNS for off-label uses were excluded. The primary outcome was pain score reduction, evaluated through visual analog scores and DASH scales. The secondary outcome was opioid usage, quantified by Morphine Milligram Equivalents (MME). Lastly, the tertiary outcome included motor recovery by evaluating manual muscle testing (MMT) pre and post-PNS implantation. Statistical analyses utilized paired two-tailed T-tests and Wilcoxon sign tests, contingent on data normalcy.

Pain scores demonstrated a significant reduction after PNS implantation with mean pre-placement pain scores being 7.29 and post-placement pain scores being 2.57 (p < 0.000005). Opioid usage significantly decreased in six out of seven patients prescribed opioids (p = 0.026). Lastly, MMT grading showed improvement in 11 patients, with one achieving normal movement after PNS implantation (p = 0.000755).

The study indicates PNS is an effective method for reducing pain and improving muscle function after nerve repair surgery. Despite variability in individual responses, the overall outcomes suggest PNS as a safe, beneficial intervention, though patient-specific factors may influence efficacy. Future research should explore PNS’s role in pain management and potential nerve recovery.