Abstract
As new devices and technologies specifically designed for peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) emerge, they promise a number of potential advantages over current PNS devices or spinal cord stimulation (SCS) devices currently used for PNS applications. One emerging trend is the miniaturization of the PNS system itself. Such devices present several advantages over larger devices, such as decreased trauma from surgery; easier, less invasive placement; the lack of extensive tunneling in some patients; and reduced discomfort from the size and weight of the internal pulse generator (IPG) once it has been implanted. The miniaturization of the device may also make it possible to treat conditions that have been untreated up to the present time because of the disadvantages or difficulties using existing systems. PNS devices are also currently being tested that use leads made from more flexible materials than traditional neurostimulation leads. Lead flexibility may decrease the chance of lead fracture or migration. © Springer Science+Business Media New York 2016.