If you are considering a spinal cord stimulator (SCS) implant for chronic pain, your care team may recommend a presurgical psychological evaluation. This evaluation is an essential step to ensure the therapy will be effective and that you are mentally and emotionally prepared for the procedure.
At Rosecrans & Associates, Dr. Megan Rosecrans Psy.D. LCP has over 10 years of experience conducting presurgical psychological evaluations for patients with chronic pain, including those preparing for spinal cord stimulators. She helps patients with a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, and coping with chronic pain to optimize surgical outcomes.
What Is a Presurgical Spinal Cord Stimulator Psychological Evaluation?
A presurgical SCS psychological evaluation is a comprehensive assessment performed by a licensed mental health professional. Its goal is to determine whether a patient is emotionally and cognitively prepared for SCS implantation and to identify potential psychological factors that could affect the therapy’s success.
This evaluation is standard practice in many pain management and neuromodulation programs and is often required by insurance providers.
Why Is a Psychological Evaluation Important for SCS Surgery?
Spinal cord stimulators can provide significant relief for chronic pain, but mental and emotional factors can affect outcomes. The evaluation helps to:
- Assess coping strategies for managing chronic pain before and after surgery.
- Screen for psychological conditions such as depression, anxiety, or catastrophizing that may interfere with outcomes.
- Evaluate expectations and readiness for the device and lifestyle changes.
- Identify risk factors for nonadherence or suboptimal response to stimulation.
- Provide recommendations for support or therapy that can improve post-surgical success.
In short, the evaluation is a tool for preparation and support, not a barrier to treatment.
What Happens During the Evaluation?
The process may vary by clinic, but typically includes:
- Clinical Interview
- Discussion of your medical history, pain levels, coping strategies, and emotional well-being.
- Exploration of previous pain treatments and responses.
- Standardized Assessments
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- Questionnaires measuring mood, anxiety, pain coping, and quality of life.
- Discussion of Expectations
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- Your provider will review goals for SCS therapy and potential limitations.
- Feedback and Recommendations
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- Summary of findings and suggestions for additional therapy, support, or education before implantation.
How Psychological Evaluations Improve SCS Outcomes
Research indicates that patients who receive presurgical psychological evaluations and follow recommended support often experience:
- Greater pain reduction and improved functional outcomes.
- Increased satisfaction with spinal cord stimulator therapy.
- Better adherence to post-surgical care instructions.
- Enhanced emotional resilience in managing chronic pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be “denied” SCS surgery after the evaluation?
No. The evaluation is intended to ensure you are prepared and supported. If challenges are identified, recommendations may include therapy or coping strategies, not surgery denial.
How long does the evaluation take?
Most presurgical SCS evaluations last 90-120 minutes, depending on your history and assessment needs.
Why is a psychological evaluation required by insurance?
Insurance providers recognize that emotional readiness and coping strategies influence the effectiveness of spinal cord stimulator therapy.
What happens after the evaluation?
You’ll receive feedback and any recommended interventions to support your success with the device, which can also be shared with your pain management team.
Why Choose Rosecrans & Associates?
At Rosecrans & Associates, Dr. Megan Rosecrans brings over 10 years of experience in presurgical psychological evaluations, chronic pain management, and neuromodulation preparation. She has helped patients with:
- Chronic pain from spine, nerve, or musculoskeletal conditions.
- Anxiety, depression, or stress related to chronic pain.
- Coping challenges, catastrophizing, or fear of medical procedures.
Dr. Rosecrans’ evaluations are supportive, individualized, and focused on your success, helping you feel prepared, confident, and equipped for optimal outcomes with your spinal cord stimulator.
Contact us today at 847-461-8414 to schedule your presurgical spinal cord stimulator psychological evaluation and take the next step toward better pain management and improved quality of life.