Neuromodulation Techniques for the Spine: A Volume in the Atlas of Interventional Pain Management Series, 1^st Edition 

By: Alaa Abd-Elsayed 

ISBN: 9780323875844 

Publication Date: May 14, 2023 

By: Robert R. Gaiser, MD (Yale School of Medicine) 

Description 

This book is a comprehensive review of neuromodulation for chronic pain, covering information relevant to spinal cord stimulation, medial branch nerve stimulation, dorsal root ganglion stimulation, and intrathecal drug delivery systems. From its introduction to neuromodulation to its thorough discussion of risks and benefits, the book is written in a clear style that makes for an easy and informative read. 

Purpose 

The purpose of the book is to provide a thorough review of neuromodulation techniques. The book meets this goal with its instructive and easy-to-read approach. Given the continued evolution of this technique for the management of pain, this book offers a valuable resource for individuals who perform the procedure, as well as information for those who interact with patients receiving this therapy for chronic pain. 

Audience 

The book is intended for pain physicians learning neuromodulation. While those with experience in the technique may find the material too basic, they will undoubtedly find new and useful information in the book. The audience also includes those who are interested in learning about neuromodulation and have questions regarding the procedure. The broad audience is a testament to the skills of the editor, who created a book that is applicable to individuals with various levels of knowledge in neuromodulation. 

Features 

The book begins with a solid foundation, presenting the history of neuromodulation and patient selection for the technique. Following a review of the surgical procedure, the book includes various chapters on neuromodulation, from the spinal cord to the dorsal root ganglion. A chapter on the medial branch neurostimulator follows with several chapters on intrathecal drug delivery systems. The book ends with two important chapters: understanding imaging and anesthesia needs, and the importance of measuring outcomes. The inclusion of a separate chapter on assessing outcomes demonstrates that the book is intended for physicians rather than proceduralists. The figures are superb and complement the information, enhancing readers’ learning. 

Assessment 

Considering the expanding role of neuromodulation, this book appropriately provides more depth than most pain textbooks and offers an outstanding approach to the procedure. It includes both a review as well as new information. The writing is clear and readable, and the editor does a superb job of ensuring a similar style in each chapter and presenting great figures that make for an enjoyable read. Anyone with an interest in neuromodulation for pain will learn new information and reinforce previous knowledge. Every pain physician should own this book. 

©Doody’s Review Service, 2023, Robert R. Gaiser, MD (Yale School of Medicine), Doody’s Score: 100 – 5 Stars! 

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