Dorsal column stimulation for pain relief from intractable angina pectoris.

Dorsal column stimulation was undertaken in 10 patients referred to the Pain Relief Clinic for management of otherwise intractable angina pectoris. All patients were on maximal medical therapy and were determined to be unsuitable for coronary artery revascularization by the referring cardiologists. Dorsal column stimulation was beneficial in all patients by decreasing the frequency and severity of anginal attacks. The mechanism of action of dorsal column stimulation in this condition is uncertain.