From the Guidelines
A bone growth stimulator is the device typically used over a cervical fusion to promote bone growth and healing. These external devices deliver either electromagnetic or ultrasonic waves to the fusion site, which stimulates osteoblast activity and accelerates the bone healing process. When considering the type of material for the device, titanium constructs are probably the best option due to their biologically inert properties and ultra-structurally smooth surface, which reduces the risk of adherence by organisms 1. Some key points to consider when using a bone growth stimulator include:
- Patients typically wear these devices for 3-8 hours daily for several months following surgery, as prescribed by their surgeon
- The most common types for cervical fusion include electromagnetic stimulators like Cervical-Stim by Orthofix or ultrasonic stimulators like Exogen
- These devices are non-invasive, battery-powered, and designed to be worn comfortably around the neck
- They work by increasing calcium transport and stimulating the production of growth factors at the fusion site, which helps create a solid fusion more quickly and reduces the risk of pseudarthrosis (failed fusion) In terms of insurance coverage, it varies, but these devices are often covered when medically necessary, particularly for patients with risk factors for poor fusion such as smoking, diabetes, osteoporosis, or multilevel fusions.
From the Research
Device Overview
- A device that goes over cervical fusion to promote growth is typically a type of implant used in spinal surgery.
- The goal of such a device is to provide stability and support to the spine while promoting bone growth and fusion.
Types of Devices
- Titanium plates are commonly used in cervical spinal fusion surgery, as seen in the study by 2.
- Posterior rod systems, such as the one described in 3, can also be used to stabilize the occipitocervical junction and promote growth.
- Bioresorbable plates, as discussed in 4, are another option for cervical spinal fusion, offering the advantage of reduced imaging artifacts.
- Cages, such as the BAK/C cervical interbody fusion system, can be used in anterior cervical fusion surgery, as described in 5.
- Titanium cages, as used in the study by 6, can be used in corpectomy with reconstruction in the cervical spine.
Key Considerations
- The choice of device depends on various factors, including the specific surgical procedure, patient anatomy, and surgeon preference.
- Studies have shown that different devices can have similar outcomes in terms of fusion rates and clinical results, as seen in 4 and 5.
- Complications, such as screw loosening or plate breakage, can occur with any device, as reported in 2 and 3.