Bone Stimulators
In an effort to enhance spinal fusion, physicians often rely on bone stimulators Bone stimulators emit low electrical currents, and can either be implanted (internal) or worn on the outside of the spine (external). Internal bone stimulators have a battery pack that is placed under the skin, with wires that lay on top of muscles on the patient's lower back. The battery pack is generally removed approximately six months after surgery. Removal is relatively simple and can be done under local anesthesia.
External bone stimulators do not require a separate procedure for removal, but may be inconvenient due to the need to wear an external appliance.
In general, bone stimulators are used on patients who have a lower likelihood of obtaining a solid fusion, such as patients with multilevel fusions, revision surgery or for smokers.
