INTRODUCTION
Gold bead implants are an extension of an acupuncture procedure. The original technique started by Dr. Grady Young has since been modified and extensively tested by Dr. Terry Durkes. PROCEDURE
The procedure involves the precise implantation of either gold beads or 24kt. gold wire into specific areas which usually coincide with acupuncture points.These implants are done under a general anesthetic after the patient has been clipped and surgically scrubbed. The decision whether to use wire or gold beads is simply one of cost , the gold wire being a more expensive proposition. At the present moment at this facility we use gold beads which are very small gold plated magnets with a very low magnetic charge. The beads are implanted with a needle and syringe so there are no sutures placed at these sites. USES
Hip Dysplasia is probably the most common disease for which gold bead implants are used. It is important to note that age at implantation does have an impact on the success rate of the procedure. The younger and the earlier after diagnosis that implants are done the better the success rate. Other problems treated with gold beading include other forms of Degenerative joint disease such as elbow and stifle arthritis , spondylosis, osteochondritis dissecans of the shoulder and arthritis of the wrist and ankle. SEIZURES ( EPILEPSY )
Another area in which gold bead implants have been shown to have good results is in the treatment of epilepsy. We hope to either decrease or terminate seizures with this procedure and in most cases we are able to decrease the dosage of seizure medication with the exception of KBr ( Potassium Bromide ) in most cases. Gold beading is an important treatment modality for seizure control especially since there are not many treatment options available from which owners can choose for this disease entity. NOTES
Thorough workups are essential when opting to treat your pet for seizures. Full blood panels, neurologic exam,urinalysis, radiographs and sometimes (CAT) catscans ,(CSF)exams and (MRI's)are advisable to rule out other potential problems which may be initiating the seizures in you pet. Gold Bead Implants should be performed by someone with extensive training and certification in Veterinary acupuncture and experience with implant procedures. TO SEE IMPLANT SLIDES CLICK ON STAFF. -Robert Ferran DVM
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