Surgical method for implantable neurostimulation system for pain

A method for subcutaneously treating pain in a patient includes first providing a neurostimulator with an IPG body and at least a primary integral lead with electrodes disposed thereon. A primary incision is opened to expose the subcutaneous region below the dermis in a selected portion of the body. A pocket is then opened for the IPG through the primary incision and the primary integral lead is inserted through the primary incision and routed subcutaneously to a first desired nerve region along a first desired path. The IPG is disposed in the pocket through the primary incision. The primary incision is then closed and the IPG and the electrodes activated to provide localized stimulation to the desired nerve region and at least one of the nerves associated therewith to achieve a desired pain reduction response from the patient.