ID:16203 Brachial Plexus Stimulation for Refractory Neuropathic Upper Limb Pain in a Traumatic Brain Injury Patient

Abstract

Chronic upper limb pain is a common issue among patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). It usually presents with characteristics resembling central neuropathic pain including allodynia, hyperalgesia, and loss of thermal sensibility. TBI patients are also at an increased risk for complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) and approximately 12-30% suffer from CRPS. Pain is often poorly localized and unilateral, involving the more affected side with regards to motor and sensory functions. It is not only difficult to diagnose but also challenging to treat, and many cases of chronic neuropathic pain remain refractory to medical treatments.