Issue link: https://cp.revolio.com/i/244291
"The most common use is for a bone that doesn't heal correctly, either because of an infection or because patients aren't as healthy as they should be," says Hahn, who notes that the frame requires a huge commitment and lifestyle disruption, so is never prescribed lightly. "We also use it to get ankle bones to fuse or to lengthen bones. And the nice thing about this device is you can do lots of things at the same time." The device looks like a spherical cage or drum, with rings encircling the leg and connected by adjustable struts. Pins and wire, which pierce the patient's skin, connect the rings with the bone. The struts are then methodically adjusted to manipulate the bone. Using complicated mathematical software programs, the computer-based technology determines treatment plans based on the doctor's input. "It's kind of cool," Hahn says. "I just put these things into the hopper and out comes a program that says how to, in three months (for instance), have the patient straightened out." Because of the intensity of the treatment, P/SL holds a monthly support meeting called "Frame Camp" that includes patients and prospective patients. lung cancer CT scan screenings Sarah Cannon, the HealthONE For more information: www.thedenverclinic.com family of hospitals, and Invision Neuromodulation Using similar technology as his HealthONE colleagues performing deep-brain stimulation (see page 28), P/SL's Dr. Giancarlo Barolat has been a pioneer in helping patients overcome insurmountable pain through neuromodulation, or stimulation of nerve cells, for 30 years. Dr. Giancarlo Barolat Sally Jobe have teamed up to offer low-dose lung-cancer CT-scan screenings for people ages 55 to 79 who have smoked at least 30 pack-years (multiply the number of packs smoked per day by the number of years smoked), even if they have quit during the past 15 years. Scans are $250 and generally not covered by insurance. "Unlike drugs, electricity has no side effects; electricity is the natural way that the nervous system works." Screenings are offered at a number By implanting a tiny pacemaker-like device, often in the spinal area, Barolat uses electrical impulses to modify pain signals in a patient's back or limbs. Common problems include: spine or wrist pain in patients whose surgery failed (back, carpal tunnel); intractable headaches or pelvic pain; nervous disorder pain that fails drug treatment (peripheral neuropathy in diabetics); and a condition called regional complex pain syndrome, often a result of a minor trauma. Because neurostimulation requires surgical intervention, patients must have suffered severe pain that has failed treatment for more than six months and be psychologically stable. Patients benefit from pain relief, a return to a more normal life, and a reduced need for debilitating painkillers. "Narcotic addiction is a huge issue right now," Barolat says. "Unlike drugs, electricity has no side effects; electricity is the natural way that the nervous system works." Because the procedure's effectiveness varies, patients undergo a trial period before surgery. For patients who find success, the technology can last a lifetime, Barolat says. "I still have follow-up patients from 25 years ago." 720-282-8888 of metro-area sites. Schedule your screening today: For more information: www.barolatcares.com A HealthONE representative can answer your questions and help you find the right physician. Call us today 303.575.0055 Health and Wellness Magazine • 93