Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant Lawsuits

By Ashley DiLiberto, Esq.

Spinal cord stimulators are marketed as life-changing medical devices designed to relieve chronic pain. But for many patients, these implants have led to more harm than healing — including electric shocks, burning sensations, device migration, and even paralysis.

If you or a loved one has experienced serious complications from a spinal cord stimulator, you may be entitled to pursue a lawsuit against the manufacturer for failing to warn about the risks or for producing a defective device.

What Is a Spinal Cord Stimulator?

A spinal cord stimulator (SCS) is a surgically implanted device that sends low levels of electricity into the spinal cord to block pain signals from reaching the brain. It consists of a pulse generator implanted under the skin and electrodes placed near the spinal cord.

SCS devices are typically used to treat:

Chronic back pain
Failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS)
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
Nerve damage or neuropathic pain

Common Spinal Cord Stimulator Complications

Numerous patients have reported serious complications, including:

Severe electric shocks
Nerve damage
Paralysis
Burning at the implant site
Device migration or malfunction
Infections requiring revision surgery

Why Are Lawsuits Being Filed?

Many lawsuits allege that manufacturers — including Boston Scientific, Abbott (formerly St. Jude Medical), and Medtronic:

Failed to adequately warn patients and doctors of the risks
Marketed their devices as safe and effective despite knowing of significant complication rates
Produced defective or poorly designed devices that led to harm
Pushed these devices through fast-track FDA approval pathways (like 510(k)) without proper testing

In some cases, patients had to undergo revision surgeries or full explants, causing further injury and emotional trauma.

Do I Qualify for a Spinal Cord Stimulator Lawsuit?

You may qualify if: