What To Expect
What to expect with the SPRINT® PNS System
It’s important to understand what to expect during any medical procedure or treatment. Before receiving your SPRINT PNS device, your physician or an SPR® representative will spend time with you to discuss your specific treatment plan.
Example placements of SPRINT PNS
Your physician will determine if a system with one MicroLeadTM or two MicroLeads is best for your situation and will also determine the appropriate placement of the device for your treatment. Depending on the location, you may need help changing the bandage regularly during the 60-day treatment.
Actual placement of the SPRINT PNS System on your body may vary. Images are for example purposes only.
Day of procedure: what to expect
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You will have a minor outpatient procedure to place the MicroLead.
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To begin, the skin around the area where the MicroLead will be placed will be cleaned and a local anesthetic will be used.
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Your physician will talk with you while positioning the MicroLead near the targeted nerve using a needle. Your feedback helps locate the ideal lead location, specific to your situation.
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After the placement of the MicroLead, a bandage is placed over the insertion site. The MicroLead will be connected to the Pulse Generator. The Pulse Generator is placed on your body using a small, sticky gel patch called a Mounting Pad.
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Following the procedure, you will be shown how to operate your device using the Hand-Held Remote. You will also receive information on managing and caring for your system.
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A SPRINT PNS representative or your clinician will be on site with you after the procedure to answer questions.
That’s it! Your treatment has now started. You may experience relief right away or notice that relief may develop over several weeks.
During the 60-day treatment period: what to expect
You will be provided with detailed instructions following your procedure. Here are some key highlights on what you can expect.
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Exercise and activity
During the 60-day treatment, you will be able to do most activities as normal. You will need to limit activity and motion near the lead site for 7 days following the procedure so that the MicroLead doesn’t accidentally get pulled out. Swimming must be avoided during the treatment.
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Showering
Before taking a shower, you will need to disconnect the Pulse Generator and remove your Mounting Pad. Do not submerge your treatment area in water. You will not be able to take a bath during the treatment period.
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Cleaning and care
You will need to change your bandages regularly as instructed by your physician. You may require assistance from a friend or family member.
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Driving
Stimulation should be off when you are driving. Your physician will advise you on any other restrictions during the treatment.
During the 60-day treatment period, the SPR team will be available for any questions you may have.
Common questions, clear answers: patient FAQ guide
View AllHow often should I change my bandage?
Your physician or a SPRINT representative will spend time with you discussing how to clean and care for the treatment area, including the lead insertion site. The bandage will typically need to be changed 1-2 times each week. If the bandage becomes soiled, damp or starts to peel, the bandage should be changed.
Are there any activity limitations?
You will need to limit activity and motion near the treatment area for 1 week following the procedure. Following the initial 7-day period, you will be able to resume most normal activities while using SPRINT PNS. Your physician will provide guidance based on your individual treatment and needs.
What risks or side effects are associated with SPRINT PNS?
The most common adverse event reported in clinical studies was skin irritation due to components being adhered to the skin (which may include inflammation, mild blistering, and/or redness). Other less-reported events included itching at the lead exit site, pain after lead placement and infection. The majority of the adverse events in clinical studies were resolved with little to no intervention within a few days, and none were classified as serious. Similar adverse events have been reported outside of clinical studies. Infections have been reported for 1-2% of patients. Serious adverse events have been rare.
It is possible that a piece of the MicroLead may remain beneath your skin following the treatment. If this happens, your physician will discuss with you whether the piece should be removed. Surgical removal of a piece of the MicroLead is rarely advised, as most instances pose little to no risk. Find full safety information here.
Can I get an MRI while using SPRINT PNS?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is not allowed on any part of the body while you are using the SPRINT PNS System. Exposure can cause tissue heating and injury or unwanted stimulation. If your physician determines that an MRI is necessary during the treatment period, the MicroLead and all other system components must be removed before the MRI. If a piece of the MicroLead remains beneath your skin after removal, it’s safe to receive an MRI under certain conditions that will be provided to you and your healthcare provider. Find MRI safety information here.