What is a Bone Growth Stimulator?

Osteogenesis

Bones undergo osteogenesis, or "bone formation," from birth to early adulthood, extending until we reach our peak height. Throughout life, our bodies continually undergo bone repair and regeneration. 

Typically, damaged or fractured bones can effectively heal themselves over time with adequate blood flow and appropriate stabilization, often involving casts, boots, pins, plates, or screws in various procedures.

About 5-10% of people undergoing orthopedic surgery or experiencing fractures may face a situation where their bones fail to heal naturally or experience a delayed healing process. In such cases, referred to as non-union, orthopedic specialists usually intervene to address and resolve the condition.

Doctors typically diagnose non-union after conducting several weeks or months of X-ray examinations. These tests reveal whether new bone is forming at the fracture or surgical site. If there is minimal to no new bone formation within the expected healing period, it indicates non-union or delayed union. Furthermore, patients may still endure persistent pain in the affected area well beyond the initial fracture or surgery.

Applying augmented energy, either via pulsed electromagnetic waves or ultrasound waves, speeds up the bone healing process. At BoneStim.com, we offer external bone growth stimulators. Internal BGS units, implanted during surgery, are costly and necessitate a second surgery for battery and wire removal from the body. In this article, we will discuss external BGS as they are cheaper than the internal ones.


Types Of External Bone Growth Stimulators

BONE GROWTH STIMULATOR FOR ARM

Tailored to address nonunion resulting from trauma, the PhysioStim bone growth stimulator for the arm effectively tackles fractures and unsuccessful fusions that resist natural healing. Its cordless design offers mobility throughout the recovery phase. Explore further by clicking here.


BONE GROWTH STIMULATOR FOR SPINE

An adjunctive device utilized after spinal fusion surgery by patients with a heightened risk of non-fusion. It also targets failed fusions from prior surgeries. If you've had spinal fusion, this bone growth stimulator expedites bone healing and potentially eliminates the need for further surgery. Explore further by clicking here.


BONE GROWTH STIMULATOR FOR NECK

 

Offering a safe, non-invasive solution, this neck bone growth stimulator aids in healing fractured bones and addressing failed post-cervical surgery fusions in patients prone to non-fusion. With coverage of up to five vertebral levels and 360-degree support around the fusion area, discover more by clicking here.


BONE GROWTH STIMULATOR FOR FOOT/ANKLE

 

Created specifically for foot fractures and ankle injuries, this bone growth stimulator facilitates the natural healing process. By emitting low-level pulses of electromagnetic energy to the ankle region, it accelerates bone growth. If you're facing delayed healing or failed fusion in your ankle, this device offers effective and painless treatment to expedite recovery. Explore further by clicking here.


BONE GROWTH STIMULATOR FOR SHOULDERS

 

The shoulder bone growth stimulator aids in the healing of fractures by emitting a pulsed electromagnetic field signal to the fusion site. It serves as an effective supplementary device, offering a non-invasive treatment to stimulate bone growth in fractures or fusions that have not healed naturally. Explore further by clicking here.


BONE GROWTH STIMULATOR FOR THIGH

 

For individuals experiencing mobility issues from a femur fracture or unsuccessful fusion, this thigh bone growth stimulator offers continuous treatment around the injury site. It delivers efficient, non-operative treatment for femur fractures or non-unions (bones that do not heal naturally). Opt for the PhysioStim thigh bone growth stimulator to stimulate bone growth in the hip area. Explore further by clicking here.


BONE GROWTH STIMULATOR FOR COLLARBONE

 

The collarbone bone growth stimulator aids in the healing of fractures by emitting a pulsed electromagnetic field signal to the fusion site. This device serves as an efficient supplementary tool, offering non-invasive treatment to stimulate bone growth in the collarbone area. Explore further by clicking here.



How Effective Bone Growth Stimulators Are?

The effectiveness of electrical bone stimulators remains uncertain, with studies yielding mixed results. In a 2008 review of clinical trials, pain reduction was observed in just one out of four trials. Research also suggests that electrical bone stimulation might accelerate healing, particularly in smokers.



Studies discovered that it reduced healthcare expenses among individuals using bone stimulators versus those receiving low-intensity pulsed ultrasound or no treatment for nonunion fractures. Conversely, another study revealed higher health-related costs for bone stimulator users compared to non-users over a year. Some experts argue that recent findings fail to demonstrate the advantages of bone stimulators. They suggest that advancements in surgical techniques may have minimized the potential benefits of these devices.


How Much Does Bone Growth Stimulators Cost?

Bone growth stimulators can be costly, ranging from $2000 to $5000, contingent upon the manufacturer and treatment area. While most insurance providers cover BGS units when prescribed by an orthopedic physician, coverage varies. Some policies may cover the entire cost, while others may require partial out-of-pocket payment. It's advisable to consult your insurance carrier if your physician recommends a Bone Growth Stimulator for your condition.

Medicare beneficiaries can complete the contact form provided, and we'll reach out to determine eligibility for receiving a Bone Growth Stimulator through your insurance provider.

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