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This blog post focuses on addressing the frequently asked questions and concerns that patients and their families often raise regarding spinal bone growth stimulators. Whether you’re exploring the possibility of using one of these devices or just seeking information on how they operate, continue reading to discover answers to your queries.

1. What Is a Spinal Bone Growth Stimulator, and How Does It Operate?

A medical device called a spinal bone growth stimulator is designed to improve the healing of spinal bones, particularly after spinal fusion surgery. Its typical mode of operation involves emitting low-level electromagnetic fields that stimulate bone growth precisely at the surgical site. This accelerates and improves the fusion process of the bones.

2. Is Using a Spinal Bone Growth Stimulator Safe?

Indeed, the use of spinal bone growth stimulators is typically regarded as safe when employed in accordance with the guidance of a healthcare provider. These devices have a long history of use with a low incidence of adverse effects. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to adhere to your doctor’s prescribed usage and duration instructions.

3. Are There Any Side Effects?

The side effects associated with using a spinal bone growth stimulator are typically minimal. Some individuals might encounter mild skin irritation at the location where the device is applied, but this usually proves to be temporary and self-resolving.

4. How Long Do You Need to Use a Spinal Bone Growth Stimulator?

The duration of use varies depending on the patient and the specific surgical procedure. Your doctor will provide guidance on the recommended usage period. It can range from several weeks to several months.

5. Are Spinal Bone Growth Stimulators Suitable for Everyone?

Spinal bone growth stimulators may not be appropriate for all patients. Your doctor will evaluate your specific condition and medical background to determine if they are a suitable choice for you. Factors such as the presence of pacemakers or other medical devices can potentially make their use unsuitable.

6. Is the Cost Covered by Insurance?

The extent of insurance coverage for spinal bone growth stimulators can differ. It’s crucial to verify with your insurance provider to ascertain whether they include the device and the conditions under which it is covered. Your healthcare provider can also offer assistance in navigating this inquiry. If you’re a Medicare Benefactor, click the image above or this link to verify your eligibility.

7. Do Spinal Bone Growth Stimulators Ensure Successful Fusion?

Although these devices notably enhance the likelihood of achieving successful bone fusion, there are no definitive guarantees in the field of medicine. The achievement of successful fusion also hinges on various factors such as surgical technique, overall health, and compliance with post-operative guidelines.

8. Can I Maintain a Regular Lifestyle While Using a Spinal Bone Growth Stimulator?

For the most part, patients can carry on with their usual daily routines while using a spinal bone growth stimulator. These devices are designed to be user-friendly and unobtrusive, allowing for minimal disruption to one’s lifestyle.

9. Are There Other Options Besides Spinal Bone Growth Stimulators?

Your healthcare provider will engage in a thorough discussion of potential treatment alternatives with you. These alternatives may encompass various surgical methods or strategies, with the selection contingent on your unique medical condition and requirements. If you’re looking for a different types of BGS (Bone Growth Stimulators) we have a variety of BGS in our product page or go check this other blog for better understanding.

10. How Can I Get More Information?

For personalized guidance and answers to your specific questions, consult with your orthopedic surgeon or healthcare provider. They can provide you with the most accurate and tailored information about spinal bone growth stimulators. We also have a variety for bone growth stimulators listed in our product page. If you are a Medicare benefactor, you can go to our contact page to connect to a customer support team and get further information.

Remember that knowledge is a powerful tool when it comes to medical decisions. If you or a loved one is considering the use of a spinal bone growth stimulator, consult with your healthcare team to make informed choices about your treatment plan.

Osteogenesis

Bones grow through osteogenesis, or “bone beginning,” from birth to early adulthood, elongating until we reach our maximum height.

Our bodies continuously repair and regenerate bones throughout life. Usually, damaged or fractured bones can heal themselves effectively with time, blood flow, and proper stabilization. This may include using casts, boots, pins, plates, or screws in various procedures.

Approximately 5-10% of individuals undergoing orthopedic surgery or experiencing fractures may encounter a situation where their bones do not naturally heal or experience a delayed healing process. When bones fail to heal, known as non-union, an orthopedic specialist typically addresses and resolves the condition.

Doctors often diagnose non-union through several weeks or months of x-ray exams. These tests show if new bone forms at the fracture or surgical site. If little to no new bone forms during the expected healing time, it signals non-union or delayed union. Additionally, patients may continue to experience persistent pain in the affected area long after the initial fracture or surgery.

Physicians address non-union by employing strategies such as surgery, internal or external fixation, bone grafting, or using biologic bone substitutes. Among these alternatives, the least invasive and non-surgical option involves the utilization of a durable medical equipment device known as a Bone Growth Stimulator (BGS). As bones naturally generate a mild electric field during their healing and growth phases, a Bone Growth Stimulator functions by delivering additional energy to the healing bone’s surface.

Administering enhanced energy, either through pulsed electromagnetic waves or ultrasound waves, accelerates the bone healing process. At Daphco Medical Equipment, we have external bone growth stimulators. Internal BGS units are expensive, implanted at the time of surgery and require a second surgery to remove the battery and wires of the unit from the body.

Below are types of External BGS’s (Bone Growth Stimulators);

BONE GROWTH STIMULATOR FOR ARM

Designed to treat nonunion caused by trauma, the PhysioStim bone growth stimulator for the arm effectively addresses fractures and unsuccessful fusions that do not heal naturally. It effectively addresses fractures and unsuccessful fusions that don’t heal naturally. The cordless design allows you to move around freely during the healing process. Click here to see more.

BONE GROWTH STIMULATOR FOR SPINE

A supplemental device used post-spinal fusion surgery by patients at high risk of non-fusion. It also addresses a failed fusion resulting from a previous surgery. If you have undergone a spinal fusion, this bone growth stimulator will accelerate your bone healing process and save you from a potential second surgery. Click here to see more.

BONE GROWTH STIMULATOR FOR NECK

This bone growth stimulator for neck provides a safe non-invasive treatment that helps promote healing in fractured bones and treats failed fractured post-cervical surgery in patients at high risk of non-fusion. It covers up to five vertebral levels and provides 360-degree coverage around the fusion site. Click here to see more.

External Bone Growth Stimulators (BGS) work on almost any body part where a fracture or surgery occurred. They come in two main forms: one has units connected to electrodes sending current to the skin over the non-healing bone, while the other is a brace or belt worn by the patient or used for support while sitting. For best results, the BGS unit should be used for several hours daily over three to nine months, and it’s crucial for patients to adhere to this regimen.

These units are known for their comfort, lightweight design, and safety. They do not require adjustments, unlike Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) units. Moreover, the electric current they emit is imperceptible and does not cause any discomfort to the patient.

DOES MEDICARE COVER THESE TYPE OF UNITS?

The cost of this technology can vary significantly, typically falling within the range of $5000 to $7000, contingent upon factors such as the manufacturer and the specific area of the body to be treated. When prescribed by an orthopedic physician, BGS units are generally eligible for coverage by most insurance providers, although exceptions may exist. Depending on your insurance plan, you might either have the entire cost of the unit covered or encounter some out-of-pocket expenses. It is advisable to consult with your insurance carrier if your physician recommends a Bone Growth Stimulator to determine the extent of your coverage and potential expenses or you can fill out a form here so that we can check your eligibility with Medicare.

Tag: back pain

FAQs About Spinal Bone Growth Stimulators