The ATI Neurostimulator is a small implant about the size of an almond.  It is implanted through a small incision in the upper gum above the second molar and positioned at the sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) nerve bundle.  The SPG is located deep in the face on either side of the nose.  The neurostimulator is placed on the predominant side of your headache pain.  The procedure leaves no external scars.  A surgeon familiar with oral surgery techniques and facial anatomy will perform the procedure, typically under general anesthesia.  Prior to the procedure a CT x-ray (computed tomographic x-ray) of your head will be taken to help plan the surgery.

The procedure takes approximately one hour, depending on your anatomy.  Your doctor will secure the neurostimulator to a bone near your cheekbone using two or three medical bone screws.  An x-ray will be taken to record the location of the neurostimulator.  After implantation, initially you may be aware of the implanted neurostimulator and it is likely you will have some bruising, swelling or discomfort for about two to four weeks.

You may be discharged the same day as your implantation or may stay in the hospital for one or two days, depending on your doctor’s instructions.  You will be given some pain medications and antibiotic medication to take for the first few days after implantation. 

If you do not wish to continue to use the Neurostimulator, the implant can be left in place (it has no function unless activated by you) or, if desired, can be removed under local anesthetic in an outpatient procedure.

X-ray Image of Implanted Neurostimulator

 

CAUTION:

Investigational device. Limited by Federal (or United States) law to investigational use.