A meta‐analysis on the impact of spinal cord stimulation on post‐operative wound healing in patients with multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has emerged as a potential therapeutic tool for various chronic conditions, but its efficacy in post‐operative wound healing for multiple sclerosis (MS) patients has not been comprehensively understood. This meta‐analysis aimed to evaluate the impact of SCS on post‐operative wound healing and scar formation in MS patients. A systematic literature review identified seven studies for inclusion. We focused on wound healing as measured by the redness, edema, ecchymosis, discharge, approximation (REEDA) scale 1 week post‐operation and scar formation assessed by the Manchester Scar Scale (MSS) 3 months post‐operation. The results demonstrated a significant improvement in wound healing in the SCS group, with a standard mean difference (SMD) of −5.82 (95% confidence interval [CI]: [−7.56, −4.09], p < 0.01) on the REEDA scale. For scar formation, the SCS group showed a notable reduction in MSS scores, with an SMD of −10.06 (95% CI: [−14.53, −5.58], p < 0.01). These findings underscore the potential of SCS as an adjunct therapy in enhancing surgical recovery in MS patients, pointing towards its broader applications in post‐operative care.