Invasive treatment of chronic neuropathic pain syndromes: Epidural stimulation of the motor cortex

The aim of this paper is to demonstrate the current status of motor cortex stimulation (MCS) as an invasive treatment option in chronic neuropathic pain patients. Epidural lead placement and MCS is performed in selected patients suffering from pain syndromes of central or peripheral neuropathic origin. To date a total number of about 500 cases and more than 30 prospective or retrospective clinical studies, patients samples or reviews have been published. The clinical experience of the authors, the perioperative management and a recent review of the relevant literature are presented.