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:
- You received a spinal cord stimulator and later suffered serious complications
- You needed revision or removal surgery
- You experienced shocking, burning, or worsening pain
- Your device malfunctioned or migrated
- You were never properly warned about these risks
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
At Messa & Associates, we’re committed to holding medical device manufacturers accountable, and we offer free, confidential consultations.