Psychologic evaluation for patients undergoing neuroaugmentative procedures.

Abstract

Neuroaugmentative and neuromodulation therapy continues to expand. New applications are being found for existing technology, such as the use of SCS therapy in the treatment of head pain. The potential impact of existing therapies is enhanced by new discoveries as exemplified by the availability and demonstrated efficacy of different pharmacologic agents and combinations of agents in intrathecal therapy [39]. Increased attention is being paid to cortical stimulation, including motor cortex stimulation and deep brain stimulation. We must, however, not let our fascination for gadgets betray sound sense. The role of psychosocial factors in the outcome of more "objective" and measurable problems, such as spasticity and tremor versus pain, remains an open area of investigation. Although psychologic issues may not be as prevalent in the amelioration of such problems, they may influence the patient's overall level of satisfaction with the therapy and improvement in quality of life.