Implantable bone growth stimulator.

The patient with a thoracic spine injury and a complete cord transsection at T8-9 level was taken to surgery for spine stabilization. After the spinal instrumentation, bone growth stimulator was implanted by the neurosurgeon (see image above).

Bone growth stimulators apply a direct electrical current to the fracture site promoting new bone formation and fracture healing.
Bone growth stimulator are indicated for the patients with who are at high risk for spinal fusion failure when any of the following criteria is met:
1. One or more failed fusions
2. Grade II or worse spondylolisthesis
3. A multiple level fusion entailing 3 or more vertebrae (e.g., L3 to L5, L4 to S1, etc.),
4. One or more of the following risk factors for fusion failure are present, gross obesity (BMI greater than 40), current smoking, diabetes, renal disease, active alcoholism;