Gold Bead Implants

Long-term stimulation of acupuncture points can be achieved by surgically implanting gold beads or wire with sterile technique.

In general, this procedure is reserved for pets with severe pain from osteoarthritis and or for animals with conditions or diseases for which conventional medicine and all other methods of treatment have failed.

 

Gold beads can be used to treat:

  • Arthritis (Hip and Elbow Dysplasia, Degenerative Joint Disease)
  • Cervical Myelopathy (Wobblers Disease)
  • Epilepsy/Seizures
  • Gingivitis – Stomatitis in Cats

Despite the fact that the beneficial effects or mechanism of action of gold bead implantation is not known (similar to procedures or medications used in conventional medicine, notably chemotherapeutic agents) their use has proven to be life saving in many cases where all other methods of treatment have failed.

There have been no significant adverse effects reported from their use in veterinary medicine.

What To Expect
The gold beads or wire are very small in size and are placed in specific points with a special needle using sterile, surgical technique. The number of beads placed varies; typically 3-5 beads per point.

Your pet may receive local, short-acting or general anesthesia to place the beads depending on the complexity of the case. Most pets only require short acting sedation and can go home the same day.

For more information on research with gold beads and canine hip dysplasia click here >

 

Gold Bead Implants FAQ

How do gold beads work?
It is believed that placing gold beads into specific acupuncture points stimulates that point (just like with acupuncture needles) and can release any blockages in the acupuncture channel. The long-term stimulation of the point also is thought to promote restore normal homeostasis or balance in disease conditions.

Are gold bead implants dangerous?
There have been no significant adverse effects reported in the veterinary literature.

How long does it take to see any beneficial effects?
All animals respond differently and results depend on the individual case, however most owners begin to see beneficial effects in 2-4 weeks. However, just as with conventional medicine results cannot be guaranteed.

Are the beads ever removed?
No, usually they remain for life.

 

Services