Spinal cord and dorsal root ganglion stimulation (SCS and DRG-S) are standard of care for patients with chronic neuropathic pain. Travel times, lack of financial resources and transportation options strongly influence the individual"s decision on seeking healthcare. Telehealth in general refers to the exchange of medical information through electronic communication. However, it is usually restricted to video conferences, without interfering with implanted medical devices. A digital platform was recently introduced to enable remote programming in Neuromodulation. It is accessible via tablets/smartphones and allows direct contact between a patient and their doctor/pain nurse.

We designed a prospective cohort to evaluate safety and performance of remote care in patients with SCS or DRG-S. Between January and October 2023, 28 patients were included. We assess up pain scores (VAS), EQ5D, pain Detect, Patient Global Impression of Care (PGIC) and telehealth usability questionnaire (TUQ) to evaluate the preoperative status, the status at implantation of the system, and the postoperative course. The postoperative data are assessed in the context of video conferences for remote programming.

This is an ongoing study. No travel or waiting time was assessed, since all patients received their appointment right in time at their home. The overall satisfaction with the telehealth system is high. TUQ 7/7 in all pats., mean PGIC 5 (4-6), mean VAS baseline/6mo (9/3). No lack of efficacy of stimulation or pain relief was found. In two out of the SCS patients, a mechanical problem was suspected, which led to an additional on-site visit, which was solved. Two patients reported technical difficulties dialing in due to limited abilities with smart devices.

The general convenience with the system is high, which is conform to previously published data regarding telehealth in general. Previous publicationsl showed that wearables can be used for an objective quantification of symptoms without the need for clinic facility time. The use of remote programming offers . reduced travel times and costs, which allow simplified and more frequent programming. Especially in a pandemic or in case of travel limitations, it is a very helpful tool.